Webinar 1: The Core
Webinar 1: The Core

Get to the "core" of the issue in your swing and understand how THE GOAT makes his swing s ...

Webinar 2: Core Power & Putting
Webinar 2: Core Power & Putting

In webinar 2, we discuss the Core Power video and how to grip the club properly so you can ...

Webinar 3 - Compression & Clubface Control
Webinar 3 - Compression & Clubface Control

Control & compression, that's the name of the game in ball striking and when you follow th ...

Webinar 4 - Fascia & Effortless Power
Webinar 4 - Fascia & Effortless Power

This is a webinar I did with the RSA members on how to load the fascial lines. This will h ...

Larry's Lesson - Pt 1
Larry's Lesson - Pt 1

The #1 most important thing you have to learn in the golf swing is how to release the club ...

Larry's Lesson Pt 2
Larry's Lesson Pt 2

Larry's Lesson Part 2

Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Part 1
Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Part 1

Starting in Day 2, we begin to work on Larry's body movement to sync up with his hand spee ...

Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Pt 2 - Using the Hackmotion
Larry's Lesson Day 2 - Pt 2 - Using the Hackmotion

Now we begin to use the Hackmotion to make a huge change in Larry's shut faced takeaway an ...

Larry's Lesson - Day 3 - Pt 3 - Swinging w/ Speed
Larry's Lesson - Day 3 - Pt 3 - Swinging w/ Speed

In the final part of the lesson we start getting Larry to pick up his pace to naturally re ...

How to Swing on Plane w/ The GOAT Code
How to Swing on Plane w/ The GOAT Code

Have you been searching for the right feeling to get the club to naturally swing on one pl ...

How the Hips Move in a Throwing Pattern
How the Hips Move in a Throwing Pattern

How the hips move in a throwing pattern in the golf swing.

How to Compress the Ball & Get Shaft Lean Lesson
How to Compress the Ball & Get Shaft Lean Lesson

Do you struggle with casting the club and losing lag? No compression on the ball? This gol ...

Winter Golf Training Program - Setup
Winter Golf Training Program - Setup

Our premium golf training program for winter months

Proper Muscle Activation
Proper Muscle Activation

Understanding how to properly activate muscles is critical for producing effortless power ...

Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips
Golf Grip Checkpoint Tips

For years, golf instructors have put band-aids on your golf grip and your golf swing by m ...

Should You Splay Your Feet At Setup
Should You Splay Your Feet At Setup

In a perfect golf setup, should your feet point out or be square to the target? This premi ...

Connect to Your Core - Get in Box
Connect to Your Core - Get in Box

This video gives you a drill to get connected to your core and "in the box." It is imperat ...

Fix Your Setup For More Power
Fix Your Setup For More Power

Did you know that a simple setup change can increase your distance off the tee? In this ...

The Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box
The Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box

Another video to disspell some of the common swing myths. This one deals with the old adag ...

The Gorilla Grip
The Gorilla Grip

Here’s a golf instruction myth about the grip that can’t die soon enough. The myth sta ...

Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position
Problems Caused by Poor Ball Position

Having the ball in the wrong position will not only cost you accuracy, but as this video t ...

How Your Setup is Causing Your Left Arm to Bend
How Your Setup is Causing Your Left Arm to Bend

I bet you've never heard this explanation for why your left arm is bending at the top of y ...

Phase 1 Follow Along
Phase 1 Follow Along

Learn how to practice your golf swing productively and follow along with a pro in this pra ...

DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing
DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing

Here's the first step in building your perfect golf swing using the DEAD Drill. It's criti ...

DEAD Drill Step 2 - The Transition
DEAD Drill Step 2 - The Transition

The DEAD Drill transition is DEAD simple. One move to have a powerful and dynamic transiti ...

DEAD Drill Step 3 - The Post-Up
DEAD Drill Step 3 - The Post-Up

The Post Up move is where all the magic happens in the golf downswing. If you've never rel ...

Flip vs. Release in Golf
Flip vs. Release in Golf

What is the difference between a proper golf club release and a flip in the golf swing? To ...

How to Get Perfect Shaft Lean at Impact
How to Get Perfect Shaft Lean at Impact

You want to hit those boring, hissing shots that scream off the face like a rocket? This g ...

Golf Impact Position Face On
Golf Impact Position Face On

After all your hard work on the backswing, it's time for the big payoff! Getting into the ...

Golf Impact Position Down the Line
Golf Impact Position Down the Line

As I discussed in the video on Impact Alignments Face On, impact is everything in RST. All ...

Cure Chicken Wing in the Golf Swing
Cure Chicken Wing in the Golf Swing

You now have a 3-step drill to help you cure your chicken wing golf swing once and for all ...

Left Elbow Position at Impact
Left Elbow Position at Impact

Find out a simple trick to hit straighter shots while also virtually eliminating your chan ...

3 Steps to better impact position in golf
3 Steps to better impact position in golf

Golf is a sport that can leave you frustrated round after round, but WHY? What exactly are ...

Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7
Golf Impact - Part 2 of 7

In part 2 of this new 7 part video series, I'll discuss one of the most important parts th ...

Perfect your golf impact - 1 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 1 of 4

Compressing the golf ball like a tour pro can be very hard to do. In this new video series ...

Perfect your golf impact - 2 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 2 of 4

Effortless power in the golf swing is a difficult concept for many amateur golfers. In vid ...

Perfect your golf impact - 3 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 3 of 4

Learn how to add more speed to your golf swing by leveraging the ground like a tour pro.

Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4
Perfect your golf impact - 4 of 4

Lag in the golf swing is key for clubhead speed. In this video, I'll show you how to add m ...

Perfecting your golf impact - Bonus
Perfecting your golf impact - Bonus

Perfecting your golf impact video series. Special bonus video that will help you correct s ...

Overview of the Push Release
Overview of the Push Release

An overview to the push release for those who want to use the right side to help power the ...

Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill
Fix Your Swing Sway w/ the Wall Drill

Fix your golf swing sway with this awesome and simple drill! Swaying off the ball in the b ...

Weight Shift Sweep Drills
Weight Shift Sweep Drills

The best golf swing drill for weight shift right before you play or when you're just on th ...

Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing
Intro to Weight Shift in the Golf Swing

Weight shift in the golf swing is the FIRST thing you must master before worrying about an ...

Weight Shift in the Golf Swing - Pt. 1
Weight Shift in the Golf Swing - Pt. 1

Using our Science and Motion (SAM) Balance Lab, we can pin point weight shift and weight d ...

Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line
Weight Shift Part 2 - Right Hip Line

In this second video on understanding weight shift in the golf swing, I discuss specifical ...

Weight Shift Part 3 - To the Left
Weight Shift Part 3 - To the Left

The culmination in the three part series on correct weight shift in the golf swing gets us ...

Step 1 - Weight Shift
Step 1 - Weight Shift

Step 1 of the RST 5 Step System - Mastering Weight Shift

Step 1 - Weight Shift - Drill Only
Step 1 - Weight Shift - Drill Only

Step 1 - Weight shift drills

5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift
5 Minute Golf Setup w/ Weight Shift

Once you've mastered the setup, you can add weight shift to your program to begin developi ...

Fixing Your Weight Transfer in the Golf Swing
Fixing Your Weight Transfer in the Golf Swing

In this video, I will show you 2 of the most common faults in downswing transition by not ...

How Attack Angle Affects Compression
How Attack Angle Affects Compression

Ever notice how the PGA Tour pros take razor thin divots? That's exactly what you want. Th ...

Taking a Divot in Front of the Ball
Taking a Divot in Front of the Ball

Taking a proper divot is something that is critical to crisp and consistent iron play, but ...

Angle of Attack
Angle of Attack

Taking deep divots? Are you supposed to? What do the pros do? This video tells you how ste ...

Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide
Swing Faults When Your Stance is Too Wide

One of the most common problems with the setup, here's what happens when your stance is to ...

Fix Your Release - Trail Shoulder Back
Fix Your Release - Trail Shoulder Back

This golf instruction video is for those who struggle to stop spinning their shoulders ope ...

Moving the Fulcrum & Hitting Shots off the Toe
Moving the Fulcrum & Hitting Shots off the Toe

It's one of my most important golf instruction videos ever, this will completely transform ...

How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps
How to Cure the Shanks in 3 Steps

The golf shank is the ugliest, nastiest, rottenest, and most frightening shot in golf. If ...

Phase 2 Follow Along
Phase 2 Follow Along

In Phase 2, you learn how to take your straight shots you learned in Phase 1 and add effor ...

Bonus Challenge 1 - Curving the Ball
Bonus Challenge 1 - Curving the Ball

Bonus Challenge 1 is about learning how to curve the ball in both directions. This challen ...

Getting Stuck on the Downswing
Getting Stuck on the Downswing

Tiger Woods used to always complain about getting "stuck" in the downswing; a position tha ...

Blocked Golf Shots | Fwd Shaft Lean
Blocked Golf Shots | Fwd Shaft Lean

If you want to compress the ball for explosive distance, then you need to be working on st ...

How to Fix the Two Way Miss in Golf
How to Fix the Two Way Miss in Golf

Struggle with the dreaded two-way miss in golf? One shot goes right and the next goes left ...

2 Finger Release Drill
2 Finger Release Drill

This awesome drill forces you to release the golf club like a tour pro! You're going to lo ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing
Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

Stop Slicing and Start Releasing the Golf Club
Stop Slicing and Start Releasing the Golf Club

In this video, I’ll show you how to release your club to stop slicing and get better com ...

Square the Clubface Early
Square the Clubface Early

Learning how to properly square the club face at impact is something that most amateur gol ...

Hitting a Fade
Hitting a Fade

Learning how to hit a fade is all about learning to control the release of the golf club. ...

How to Stop Hooking the Golf Ball
How to Stop Hooking the Golf Ball

How to stop hooking the golf ball once and for all! If you struggle with hitting hook shot ...

Hitting a Draw
Hitting a Draw

Once you've mastered the RST swing method, you realize that, due to the simplicity of the ...

How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw
How to Hit the 3 Yard Draw

Learn how to hit the delicate little three yard draw and why you're struggling with gettin ...

Phase 3 Follow Along
Phase 3 Follow Along

It's in Phase 3 where you will start to really experience power AND control like never bef ...

Bonus Challenge 2 - Trajectory Control
Bonus Challenge 2 - Trajectory Control

Bonus Challenge 2 is where you become the master of your own destiny by learning how to co ...

How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot
How to Fix Golf Reverse Pivot

A reverse pivot golf swing can cause a whole lot of bad shots, from hitting it thin to hit ...

Cure Reverse Pivot w/ the Necktie Drill
Cure Reverse Pivot w/ the Necktie Drill

Axis tilt is a necessary fundamental of the golf swing that many golfers ignore or fail to ...

5 Minutes to Master Rotation
5 Minutes to Master Rotation

This video holds the 5 step pathway to mastering rotation in the golf swing. At the end of ...

Keep the Right Arm Straight to Turn
Keep the Right Arm Straight to Turn

One of the most common faults that destroys a powerful turn in the golf swing is how the r ...

How to Fix a Flat Shoulder Turn
How to Fix a Flat Shoulder Turn

Fix a flat shoulder turn in your golf backswing with this simple and easy to do drill.

Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn
Simple Fix to Make a Full Shoulder Turn

Struggle with making a full turn, even though your fit and flexible? Lacking the distance ...

Using the Core
Using the Core

Using a side by side face on view of Tiger Woods with a driver and a recent swing of mine ...

The Bucket Drill - Golf Shoulder Turn
The Bucket Drill - Golf Shoulder Turn

The Bucket Drill is one that provides a very simple and clear picture on how to rotate cor ...

Intro to Core Rotation in Golf Swing
Intro to Core Rotation in Golf Swing

The rotating core is the "engine" of the golf swing and the primary mover of the entire sw ...

Step 2 - Core Rotation
Step 2 - Core Rotation

Step 2- Adding body rotation

Step 2 - Core Rotation - Drill Only
Step 2 - Core Rotation - Drill Only

The drill only for Step 2 - Body Rotation

Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension
Clamshell Drill - How to Cure Early Extension

The Clamshell Drill is the key to the golf swing, no seriously! If you want to see how the ...

Eliminate Early Extension in Golf Swing
Eliminate Early Extension in Golf Swing

The REAL causes of early extension in the golf swing and the only TRUE way to fix it.

Closed Hip Slide
Closed Hip Slide

A closed hip slide is detrimental to your golf swing when learning how to shift your weigh ...

Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency
Live Lesson - How to Stop Losing Tush Line & Boost Consistency

Struggling with a 2 way miss and lack of consistency? Watch this Live Lesson to learn a si ...

Losing the Tush Line
Losing the Tush Line

One of the most common questions I get regularly is how to stop losing the tush line, or s ...

Squat to Square in the Golf Downswing
Squat to Square in the Golf Downswing

If you watch golf on TV, it seems that you can't turn your hips fast enough or far enough ...

Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency
Squeeze the Cheeks for Consistency

The glute muscles (your butt cheeks) are some of the most important muscles in the golf sw ...

Role of the Right Foot in Downswing
Role of the Right Foot in Downswing

Footwork is a bit of a misnomer in the golf swing but you hear it every week on TV. What i ...

Fix Your Over the Top Swing by Fixing Your Hand Path
Fix Your Over the Top Swing by Fixing Your Hand Path

Learn how to fix your over the top golf swing by simply being able to read a clock. If you ...

Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing
Stop Coming Over the Top in the Golf Swing and Slicing

You're well aware that slicing destroys your distance and your scorecard. What you may not ...

How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson
How to Shallow Your Golf Swing Fast and Easy - Live Lesson

Do you struggle with shallowing the club in the downswing and keep hitting a pull cut or e ...

How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition
How to Shallow Your Hands During Transition

Do your hands go straight out toward the golf ball and don't shallow out during the transi ...

Over the Top Stick Drill
Over the Top Stick Drill

Are you tired of yelling “Fore!” when you hit big, nasty slices off the tee? If so, he ...

Drill to Learn Inside Path to Golf Ball
Drill to Learn Inside Path to Golf Ball

Tired of the over the top slice? This drill and training aid will teach you how to approac ...

How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson
How to Fix Your Over the Top Move - Live Lesson

Do you have a steep, over the top golf swing? No matter what you try and do, you can't sto ...

9 to 3 Lag Building Drills
9 to 3 Lag Building Drills

Learn how to build lag in your golf swing with these 9 to 3 lag building drills. You'll le ...

AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing
AXIOM Lag in the Golf Swing

Producing incredible lag has never been this easy - or fast

Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill
Increase Lag - Impact Cube Drill

This awesome drill will teach you to not cast the club and maintain lag into impact.

Speed vs. Power in the Golf Swing
Speed vs. Power in the Golf Swing

Speed vs. Power - Which is it that you want in the golf swing? Many golfers think they nee ...

Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag
Reshaping Your Golf Swing for Lag

It's no secret that you want more lag in your swing. In this incredible video, I give you ...

RST Student Success - Building More Lag
RST Student Success - Building More Lag

RST student uses a simple 3 step process to shallow his golf swing and build in a ton of l ...

Intro to Fix Losing Lag and Weak Release
Intro to Fix Losing Lag and Weak Release

Find out how to work through this section on how to cure your golf casting / loss of lag o ...

Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer
Sklz Gold Flex Lag Trainer

This KILLER training aid will help you master a smooth, one-piece takeaway and help you bu ...

Rickie Fowler - How to preserve Lag
Rickie Fowler - How to preserve Lag

Lag is the most efficient way to increase clubhead speed. In this video, RST Instructor Ch ...

Lag and Speed Drills
Lag and Speed Drills

To get more distance in golf, you've got to get maximum speed from your arms and not let y ...

Key to Creating Lag
Key to Creating Lag

The secret key to creating lag has been an elusive thing for most amateur golfers. In this ...

Downcock Pump Lag Drill
Downcock Pump Lag Drill

Every golfer wants to know how to create more lag in their swing to hit the ball further. ...

Golf Grip's Effect on Lag
Golf Grip's Effect on Lag

As you've no doubt seen, my golf students have been picking up some serious distance throu ...

Become a Golf Swing Lag Monster: Shocking Success Story
Become a Golf Swing Lag Monster: Shocking Success Story

In this video, I’ll show you how RST student David became a "lag monster" with RST swing ...

4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder
4 Step Golf Swing Lag Builder

The 4 steps to building INSANE lag in your golf swing - and you can do it TODAY!

Golf Left Thumb: Fix Pain, Soreness, Casting
Golf Left Thumb: Fix Pain, Soreness, Casting

Casting the club in the downswing is a sure way to destroy club head speed. Check out this ...

Right Arm in Downswing: Stop Casting
Right Arm in Downswing: Stop Casting

In this video, you’ll find out: 1) How Tiger Woods builds lag for power, 2) What to feel ...

Sequencing the Downswing - Dump Truck and Drag Racer
Sequencing the Downswing - Dump Truck and Drag Racer

Sequencing the downswing is the HARDEST overall part of the golf swing - and also the MOST ...

Bonus Challenge 3 - 9 Ball Challenge
Bonus Challenge 3 - 9 Ball Challenge

Bonus Challenge 3 is the culmination of all that you have learned. You will learn how to t ...

AXIOM Introduction
AXIOM Introduction

Have you been looking for a wait to learn a tour pro swing through a simple feeling so you ...

The AXIOM Golf Video
The AXIOM Golf Video

What if you could learn a swing just like the tour pros, increase your distance and consis ...

AXIOM and the DEAD Drill
AXIOM and the DEAD Drill

How does the AXIOM work with the DEAD Drill to build a consistent golf swing? Find out how ...

AXIOM Golf Discover Your Natural Rhythm & Tempo
AXIOM Golf Discover Your Natural Rhythm & Tempo

At last, a simple way to have perfect rhythm and tempo on every shot.

Justin Rose AXIOM Force Plate Study
Justin Rose AXIOM Force Plate Study

Want to see proof of the AXIOM in tour pros with irrefutable data? Then look no further th ...

AXIOM in Jessica Korda
AXIOM in Jessica Korda

Top ranked LPGA star Jessica Korda is a wonderful example of power and simplicity as she d ...

AXIOM in Jon Rahm
AXIOM in Jon Rahm

A perfect example of the AXIOM can be seen in tour pro and top ranked Jon Rahm. This compa ...

The Post Up Move - How to Use Lead Leg for Power and Maintain Posture
The Post Up Move - How to Use Lead Leg for Power and Maintain Posture

Have you ever wondered how the pros use their legs for power in the golf swing? This video ...

My Golf Power Secret
My Golf Power Secret

How do the pros hit the ball so darn far? I tell all inside with this power secret!

Using your wrists for speed in golf swing - 5 of 7
Using your wrists for speed in golf swing - 5 of 7

Your body uses tension as its primary mechanism to sequence the golf swing. In general, th ...

Vertical Ground Force and Double Peaks
Vertical Ground Force and Double Peaks

Should you be trying to increase vertical ground force in your swing and if so, how should ...

Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball
Throw the Club Head at the Golf Ball

Unlock the leverage, speed and power of your golf swing by understanding the physics behin ...

Throw for More Natural Golf Swing
Throw for More Natural Golf Swing

Do you want a more natural golf swing with much more speed? Then you need to focus on how ...

Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing
Using the Wrists in the Golf Swing

The wrists play a very dynamic role in your golf swing. In this video, I'll cover the term ...

The Tour Pro Downswing Sequence Drill
The Tour Pro Downswing Sequence Drill

If you are looking for a golf swing drill that can INSTANTLY improve your ball striking po ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 1
Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 1

This is THE key drill for really understanding how the downswing sequencing works. This 20 ...

Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 2
Trail Arm Release - Throw the Ball Drill Pt 2

Are you ready to maximize your club head speed at impact? If so, you need this missing pie ...

Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain
Tim Burke - Kinetic Chain

Tim Burke wins his 2nd World Long Drive Championship. In this video, I'll show you the key ...

Golf Takeaway | Overview
Golf Takeaway | Overview

An overview of the RST takeaway by RST Founder, Chuck Quinton. This video walks you throug ...

AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway
AXIOM Refine Your Takeaway

Simplify your takeaway with a simple 2" movement that moves the club 6 feet!

Learn a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!
Learn a Perfect Golf Takeaway with Just a 2 Inch Movement!

Learn how to pull in this video: Pushing vs Pulling in the Golf Swing Learn the simplest ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - 4 Square Drill

You probably overuse your hands during the first half of the backswing, like most golfers, ...

Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide
Understanding Shoulder Blade Glide

If you have questions about exactly what the shoulder blade glide is or what it should fee ...

Golf Takeaway, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Takeaway
Golf Takeaway, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Takeaway

This 30 minute long golf instruction video is key to setting you on the right path for the ...

Right Wrist in the Takeaway
Right Wrist in the Takeaway

The role of right wrist in the takeaway is often misunderstood and has been the source of ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Pushing with the Lead Side
Fix Inside Takeaway - Pushing with the Lead Side

An extremely common swing fault, so common that many golf instructors actually teach the s ...

Role of the Right Arm - Takeaway
Role of the Right Arm - Takeaway

Collapsing the right arm early is something that at least 90% of amateur golfers struggle ...

Pull for a perfect takeaway - 6 of 7
Pull for a perfect takeaway - 6 of 7

So many golfers try to perfect the takeaway in the swing and they constantly fight an uphi ...

Thorbjorn Olesen - Perfect your takeaway
Thorbjorn Olesen - Perfect your takeaway

See 2 key moves that Thorbjorn Olesen uses to build a picture perfect takeaway position ev ...

One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway
One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway

In this video, I’ll show you the one swing change that’ll fix your takeaway once and f ...

Posture's Effect on the Takeaway
Posture's Effect on the Takeaway

Posture at address is something that Tiger Woods always does right and it's something that ...

How to Fix an Inside Takeaway
How to Fix an Inside Takeaway

This one simple trick will fix an inside takeaway instantly, I guarantee it!

Fix Inside Takeaway - Shake Hands Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - Shake Hands Drill

This is the best golf swing drill to teach you exactly how your hands should work during t ...

Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills
Golf Swing Takeaway & Drills

The golf takeaway has been described by golf instructors countless ways, so many ways that ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Belly Button Drill
Fix Inside Takeaway - Belly Button Drill

This simple takeaway drill will give you that one piece takeaway you've been looking for o ...

Fix Inside Takeaway - Forward Press
Fix Inside Takeaway - Forward Press

If you've ever wondered whether or not you should have a forward press at setup, this golf ...

Wrist Cock vs. Wrist Hinge in the Golf Swing
Wrist Cock vs. Wrist Hinge in the Golf Swing

Do you know the difference between wrist cock and wrist hinge in the golf swing? The diffe ...

AXIOM Body Backswing
AXIOM Body Backswing

Eliminate your reverse pivot, handsy inside takeaway, your head swaying off the ball and y ...

AXIOM Refine Your Backswing
AXIOM Refine Your Backswing

Dial in your arms during the backswing to start easily shaping the ball, changing trajecto ...

Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill
Body Rotation in Golf Backswing - Chair Drill

If you want to power up your swing in golf, body rotation in the backswing is crucial. Unf ...

Left Shoulder Push in Backswing
Left Shoulder Push in Backswing

This "Left Shoulder Push in the Backswing" video is for you ONLY if you already pull perfe ...

5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Backswing
5 Minutes to the Perfect Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the takeaway using our "5 Minutes to the Perfect Takeaway" video, you ...

My Golf Backswing Secrets
My Golf Backswing Secrets

My keys to success for a perfect golf backswing - how to make the backswing simple and rep ...

How Much Shoulder Elevation
How Much Shoulder Elevation

It's time to help you decide how to power your golf swing. And it all starts with how you ...

Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing
Right Elbow Pit in Golf Backswing

Do you struggle, like most golfers, with a flying right elbow at the top of the backswing? ...

Understanding Arm Elevation
Understanding Arm Elevation

In this video, Ill show you what arm elevation is, why you need it, and exactly how much y ...

Fix Overswing/Across the Line - Flying Right Elbow
Fix Overswing/Across the Line - Flying Right Elbow

If you want to cure your overswing/across-the-line swing, you first need to diagnose the c ...

Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing
Live Lesson - How to Fix Your Arms by Fixing Your Legs in the Backswing

Do you struggle with your arms getting too deep or too disconnected during the backswing? ...

Right Arm Backswing Drill
Right Arm Backswing Drill

This is an excellent drill to train your mind to use your torso rotation to move the club ...

Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing?
Should You Restrict Your Hip Turn in the Backswing?

For years, you've been taught to restrict the hips in the backswing. Is that what's best f ...

Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms
Simplify Your Backswing with Shallow Arms

Make this one simple change to reduce tension in your backswing to start hitting more EFFO ...

Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control
Stop Overswinging | Get Your Backswing Under Control

A powerful, compact backswing is essential for creating good contact with the ball. If ...

Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing
Fix Hip Overturning in Your Backswing

If you're letting your hips over rotate in the backswing, you're costing yourself a ton of ...

Fix Loose Lower Body w/ Laser Beam Knee Drills
Fix Loose Lower Body w/ Laser Beam Knee Drills

Lower body stability is key for power and accuracy in the golf swing. This drill will help ...

Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing
Torso, Hips Over Rotating in Backswing

How much shoulder turn is too much and how much is not enough? Depends on how it's measure ...

DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing
DEAD Drill Step 1 - The Backswing

Here's the first step in building your perfect golf swing using the DEAD Drill. It's criti ...

Golf Backswing, Completing the Golf Backswing
Golf Backswing, Completing the Golf Backswing

Once you've mastered the setup, weight transfer and takeaway, it's time to progress to the ...

Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing
Winter Golf Training Program - Backswing

Snow on the ground? Too cold out? No problem! NOW is the BEST time to work on your golf sw ...

Upper vs. Lower Body Rotation in Backswing
Upper vs. Lower Body Rotation in Backswing

Confused about how your upper body rotates in the backswing compared to your lower body? T ...

How to Keep Your Left Arm Straight in the Backswing
How to Keep Your Left Arm Straight in the Backswing

The secret to why you can't keep your left arm straight at the top of the golf backswing.

How to Avoid a Cupped Left Wrist at the Top
How to Avoid a Cupped Left Wrist at the Top

Learn the cause of a cupped left wrist at the top of your golf backswing and how to fix it ...

How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing
How to Fix Trail Leg Straightening in Backswing

Is your trail leg straightening in the backswing? Do you know what kind of issues this sim ...

Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders?
Do You Start Backswing w/ Hips or Shoulders?

To start the golf swing with the upper or lower body, that is the question! I think Shakes ...

Checkpoints - 5 Minutes Backswing
Checkpoints - 5 Minutes Backswing

If you who have already watched the complete 5 Minutes to the Perfect Backswing video, thi ...

5 Minutes to a Perfect Backswing Pitfalls
5 Minutes to a Perfect Backswing Pitfalls

In this premium video, I am going to cover some of the common mistakes that RST students m ...

3 Functions of Right Arm in Backswing
3 Functions of Right Arm in Backswing

In this video, I'll show you the 3 functions of the right arm in creating the perfect back ...

Henrik Stenson's Backswing Moves
Henrik Stenson's Backswing Moves

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Left Arm in the Golf Downswing (LADD)

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A lot of golfers don't understand how the arms work in the golf swing. That's why I have spent a great deal of time talking about the right arm to this point but not as much talk about the left arm. The left arm has an equally important role to perform in the golf swing, perhaps even more so in that it directly controls the club face through impact. The right arm's job is primarily speed and support of the left arm whereas the left arm controls trajectory and direction. In this 20 minute long video I discuss how the left arm works in the downswing to both prevent injury to the left elbow which is a very common golf swing injury and to maximize control by understanding how the left arm should be rotated and positioned at impact, as well as the left wrist. The left arm downswing drill is also covered in two phases, both without a golf club and with a golf club that will allow you to master these impact positions that are so vital for directional control. The topic of getting stuck in the downswing and how the incorrect movement of the left shoulder easily creates this dreaded feeling is also covered as well as how the left shoulder works to get into the proper impact position.

  • This drill can improve your swing instantly because you learn what determines the ball's path
  • The left arm, especially the wrist and hand, controls the club face at impact
  • The left elbow should point down the line and the left wrist should be flat at impact
  • For the drill, keep the left shoulder shut, elbow pointing down the line, and rotate the wrist through the entire downswing
  • Practice with arms only, then add a club & impact bag - stop and check form at impact
  • The goal is to have everything aligned at impact - left shoulder over left hip, knee & ankle
  • You should feel that your chest is over, or "covering" the ball

LADD Drill - The left arm in the downswing is a key drill to help you master the lead side movement of the golf swing. The left arm in the golf swing is one of the most important fundamentals of learning the Rotary Golf Swing. The left arm has to rotate throughout the entire golf swing rather than what most goofballs on television will tell you which is to hold the club face square to the target as long as humanly possible.

Nobody actually does this in the golf swing or they lose a tremendous amount of clubhead speed. How much coverage speed? The center of the clubface is actually moving about 7 to 8 miles an hour faster than the heel when it's rotating properly and I don't know about you but I don't think you can afford to give up 8 miles an hour club at speed especially when it takes no effort to produce it.

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Mikko-Pekka
Hello Craig! Thank you for the review. I didn't find proper video to post this but I have a question about lead lat pull. Which way should it be pulling? Away from the target (like in a takeaway we pull the right shoulder back) or behind me? Hope you understand what I'm trying to describe. The lead lat pull is definitely something I don't feel.
July 9, 2021
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mikko. The lead lat will be pulling the arms in front so the lat will be pulling down. It will feel more towards the ground and target vs behind you. This is a different pull. Not like the shoulder blade glide.
July 9, 2021
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Mikko-Pekka
Ok, thanks for clarification. I was almost going to drill the "glide-pull"!
July 9, 2021
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Scott
Hi. This drill prompts active left forearm movement but in other videos it said to have a passive left arm. Can you explain the difference? Is it that the left arm moves as a reaction to the left hip/obliques pull but the left forearm still actively rotates at the same time? Thanks
December 3, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. Depends on the player. Some players have older movement patterns so ingrained they need to train a little active internal rotation to help start shallowing out the club. The goal is using the weight shift/core to pull the upper half down while being very passive with the arm so the motion happens more naturally.
December 3, 2020
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Kevin
“A-ha moment” I worked on this at the range and took it to the course with huge success. I was able to hit hybrids out of deep rough and some great irons - divots looks great and impact sounds amazing I feel like this is the move that helps the chest in the shot and the shoulders closed longer. The only mistake I made at the range was a few shanks if I didn’t keep the lower body back (clamshell drill). All in all, this really clicked for me!
July 21, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Awesome Kevin!
July 22, 2020
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Kevin
Hi Craig - I’ve been working on this move and it’s helped get my arms isolated from my chest in the down swing which allows we to keep the chest closed longer. I feel like I post up while my lead arm is working down but the post happens first and my arm is working down helps keep my chest in the shot (clamshell). Just want to confirm that sequence makes sense or if the left arm working down should happen with the weight shift and work up with the post move?
September 11, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. The lead arm will be working down in weight shift, but as you post up and back it will trigger the club to work down and out. Sounds like that is what you are feeling more. I don't want you right now trying to raise the lead arm up into the strike in fear you will start raising the fulcrum(lead shoulder) as well.
September 12, 2020
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Kevin
Thanks Craig - your comments reminded me of the “you hit the ball with your legs” video so I just rewatched that as well. Your right the last thing I want to do is raise the fulcrum - I think the lead arm and pulling from the left side more should help clean this up - the toe strike is the miss I’m Fighting the most
September 12, 2020
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Kevin
Hi Craig - I just watched my swing review you completed. I have some left arm work to do in order to get the arms to come more straight down from the top. I just wanted to get some clarification - should I focus more on my moving my left arm down into the position than letting my body pull it down into impact? I've had some issues with the club getting stuck behind me in the past so I just wanted to clarify that a video like this may help me sync up my arms better.
April 21, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. Let the body pull the arm and just delete some tension. I think when you take care of the over swing. All will be well. I just don't want you throwing them at the ball from the top.
April 22, 2020
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Kevin
Thanks Craig. I find that some of the tension at the top of the swing is caused by the left arm only holding up the club. I may submit my next review doing some tracing with the right hand fingertips or adding the right arm at the top. Open to your suggestions on how you'd like me to add in the right arm at the top to help support the club
April 22, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kevin. You are in way better shape than I am and I can do it . A little support from trail finger tips is fine. Just enough to provide the needed support and not control.
April 22, 2020
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Kim
At the 14 minute mark Chuck talks about stacking up over left side. He then warns against too much axis tilt/ hitting from the inside. The picture on the wall behind him shows some degree of axis tilt. How much is too much?
April 2, 2020
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kim. Yes, that poster was made very early on in the process during his swing change. The amount is predetermined at setup. It will increase the slight amount it needs to get the hip, etc stacked. Only if not stacked won't you start to see too much/little depending on the errors at NJA/Impact.
April 3, 2020
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Jens
The whole thing with working your arms down, is that only for this drill or is it actually beneficial to feel i assist the pull of my arms in the real swing aswell. Could it be a gain if i sequence correctly? Chuck has always been so adamant on just letting the arms naturally get pulled by the created force of shifting and posting up, hence me asking.
September 5, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jens. The lead lat is part of the process with the weight shift and core bringing the arms down. This is a closer look at what muscle actually aids in the arm movement. Some players need to feel a little pull of the lead arm because they don't allow the arms to react properly to the weight/torso movement. It's not a gain in sequence its something that needs to happen. When you shift weight and pull with the torso the lat will help pull the arms in front. Not a yank. Exactly as you said. "Chuck adamant of arms naturally pulled by force of shifting and posting." The lat is one of the muscles in that chain that are working.
September 5, 2019
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Frank
Just writing to verify I understand: 1.during end of backswing and early downswing the whole left arm rotates to the right to flatten the club early in downswing and 2. In the downswing the wrist does just the opposite, it twists the club to the left and bows also. Really need to separate the arm turn from the wrist turn as they twist opposite ways at different times. Are my statements correct? This was very confusing to me at first and also vital to a good swing! I incorporated these two moves with very positive results. With these two changes I went from bad fades to guarding against bad hooks.
August 16, 2019
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Frank, this sounds mostly correct. The wrist and forearm will be rotating together in the downswing and yes, that would be independent from the the upper arm movements.
August 17, 2019
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Giap
While hitting balls do this drill I'm not getting stuck as much, but my clubface is closed at impact. How can I fix that?
February 22, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Giap. I would check to make sure the shoulders are square, lead elbow position and that you aren't flipping the club. Left Elbow Position at Impact Video and Flip vs Release.
February 22, 2019
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Giap
When practicing this drill, should I feel my left arm pulling down while I shift my weight?
February 20, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Giap. It will be a blend of gravity, weight shift and lead lat/core. You don't want to yank the lead arm down, but you will feel a slight engagement/pull.
February 20, 2019
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Sam
When practicing left arm only while hitting balls, would the setup be: 1) posture and axis tilt as usual. 2) left hand slightly further away from the body just inside chin line (as the right hand would usually be). 3) ball further up in stance. Thanks
February 17, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sam. 2 Items. Some players feel a little more comfortable at the chin line when doing lead arm only. Not a requirement though. It may be setup in the exact same spot as a normal swing. Also, ball position should be the same (under logo/just outside lead ear).
February 18, 2019
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Lucas
When starting the downswing you shift your weight over which automatically drops yours arms down to create that inside path. When you get to 9 oclock in the downswing, from there do pull down with your left arm then release at impact. Or are you not supposed to feel like your using your arms at all and it's just all body. Is there any point your using either arm in the downswing?
February 2, 2019
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lucas. You shouldn't need to feel a massive pull, or yank. The lead lat will help pull the arms in front as you are using the core to reach impact. Some players will feel a little more than others. But, you don't need a very aggressive pull.
February 2, 2019
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David
I practicing the impact position and keeping my left elbow pointing at the target at impact. When is it ok to rotate my left arm? and how do I time that out. I like the one pivot point - my left wrist.
October 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. After the club has release and once you start working into the 3 O'Clock position the arm will rotate as normal. You don't need to think about it that much, or be too detailed oriented. If the alignment is correct at impact and you let the forearms turnover to release. The arm will follow suit to help you reach max extension and swing finish.
October 19, 2018
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David
But definitely, the left elbow points at the target at impact, correct?
October 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Yes. You want the forearms doing the releasing there and not the elbow (whole arm).
October 19, 2018
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Joe
Wow...this is going to be a game changer for me. I was taught years ago to rotate my forearms through impact so my elbow has been pointing behind me near impact. I guess this explains why I struggle with pulling the ball and flipping. To retrain my movement so that the wrist moves independently of the elbow is going to take a lot of reps.
March 19, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joe. Glad you found the video informative to start cleaning up your impact and release.
March 19, 2018
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Ronald
In this video Chuck says that the club should be rotating continuously from the top of the swing and through the downswing, and makes the point that if the club doesn't rotate from the top and then we try rotating much further down in the downswing this can lead to inconsistency and flipping. However, in other videos on the site, I've seen instruction that says the arms should come down so that when the club is parallel to the ground or around the right hip (or right pocket) that if you were wearing a wrist watch it should be facing completely forward and then the club should be released. Can you please reconcile these two concepts? Also, regarding lag: there is no way that my wrists can cock more than 90 degrees, so I am assuming that there needs to be some amount of wrist hinge in order to get the angles that Chuck achieves in the lag videos, especially when the club is coming close to hitting his right shoulder. I get the "soft wrist" concept but still can't get there with maximal wrist cock.
February 23, 2018
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ronald. The club is always rotating. It is rotating at different rates throughout the swing. Very gradual rotation back and into the trail thigh. From about three feet from the ball the club will accelerate. Not a massive speed up of the hands. The trail wrist will hinge a little. But, think about your wrist set as maxed out on the way down. Not at the top. You don't need a massive change. Just slight increase. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and the Perfecting Your Golf Impact Position - 4 of 4.
February 23, 2018
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T David
Should we reach the point of impact at the same time as posting up on the left side, or just after?
July 10, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. You will start to post up before reaching impact.
July 10, 2017
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T David
I am focusing on this drill and video taping myself with the different clubs. I noticed that I tend to hike up that left shoulder through the impact region. Any swing thoughts that I should focus on with this movement?
July 6, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Well, you can work on the level shoulders drill. Or, we need to see why the shoulder is hiking up in the first place. This can be from several factors...excessive upper body rotation, too much pulling of the arms down into the hitting area, to much right leg drive causing the hips to come forward and the spine to lean. Are you due for a swing review so we can help you????
July 6, 2017
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T David
Thanks, Chris. Still have some work to do on the drill here before I send in a review. This video is my homework at the moment from Craig. I'll try to get one over this coming week.
July 6, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
My pleasure and sounds like a plan. Good luck!
July 6, 2017
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Stephen
I am getting massive improvements in my ball striking after concentrating on this drill/video but only with my irons. Trying the same motion with my driver is having disastrous results (lots of slices). Probably mental as I find it easier to 'cover the ball with my chest' with the ball position where it is with my irons but when I put the ball off my left toe for the driver set up I can't seem to get the same motion and I end up with ridiculous amounts of right side push. Placing the ball slightly back to an inch inside my left heel (with my driver) seemed to alleviate the issue a bit but resulted in a much lower ball flight. Do you have any tips to help me apply the concepts in the LADD video with the Driver set up? Thanks
July 3, 2017
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Stephen, sounds like you might be trying to pull the arms down in front of the body to much when you have the driver in your hands. I would try to be a little more patient with that sort of move as it is very common for students to get going way to fast with the arms in the sequence, which doesn't allow you to get the clubface back to square and you would be pulling in too much forward shaft lean for a driver. Send in your driver swing for review and let us take a close look.
July 6, 2017
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T David
Should we be trying to lock the elbow and keep the arm ramrod straight on the downswing?
July 2, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. Nothing in the swing should ever be locked out or overly tense. Nevertheless, the lead arm should be straight in the downswing.
July 3, 2017
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T David
I have been working on this drill consistently. It has really helped my iron play with compressing the ball. However, what adjustments should I make to this drill when using the driver?
July 1, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. One swing for all shots. Only setup adjustments with the driver.
July 1, 2017
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T David
Great video! This has really helped me immensely. One other video that plays nicely with this is the Getting Stuck on the Downswing video. For me, and I'm not sure WHY this is... but keeping my back to the target as long as during the first part of the downswing through the initial weight shift to the left has really helped keep this proper alignment at impact. Any thoughts on the WHY part?
June 30, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. The "why" is because the shoulders don't race to the ball. The shoulders don't have very far to travel and it is very easy for them to reach impact before your arms have time to work in front.
July 1, 2017
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Stephen
Steve When doing the drill with only the left arm everything works well. Left shoulder is working down, elbow and hand are facing target, release relaxed and follow through is wide and smooth. When I add the right arm my swing feels confined especially on the follow through. Any suggestions?
June 19, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. You have to train the trail arm. Work on Step 5 - Add the Trailing Arm.
June 19, 2017
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Yi
What I found out is that if I try to square the club face at the impact, it would be easier to have the hip turn about 30-40 degrees while having the leading elbow pointing towards the target. If I don't turn my hip and leave it parallel to the target, the same as my shoulder line, I will have my leading elbow pointing about 45degrees left of the target, a position prone to injury.
May 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yi. Agreed. We would prefer you to have the hips 30-45 degrees open at impact.
May 7, 2017
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tyler
I tend to come slightly over the top in the downswing causing a fade or occasional pull (ball just starts left and stays left). I'm working on pulling with left side vs pushing with right (great insight btw). However, this video helped me realize I unload my shoulders a little early in downswing and my left shoulder is quite a bit higher than the right at impact. In this video and another one, they referenced feeling like you are keeping your chest pointing away from the target as long as possible (or keeping back turned toward target as long as possible), Is this a correct swing thought and will this help pull/lead downswing with left side? I'm trying to get the proper swing thought coming down
May 5, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Tyler. Feeling like your back is to the target longer, chest staying closed, or trail shoulder staying back in the downswing is a great way to help stop coming over the top.
May 6, 2017
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Hector
OK I'M A LITTLE CONFUSED RIGHT NOW. IN THE DOWNSWING THE IDEA IS TRY TO KEEP THE LEFT ELBOW INTERNALLY ROTATED AND SHALLOW THE PLANE A LITTLE BIT AND WITH THE FINALITY OF KEEPING THE ELBOW STRAIGHT LOOKING TOWARDS THE TARGET , BUT AT THE SAME TIME THE FOREARMS ARE ROTATING EXTERNALLY , SO MY QUESTION IS HOW I CAN DO TWO OPPOSITES MOVEMENTS AT THE SAME TIME.... IT IS IMPOSIBLE .. GIVE ME SOME LIGHT
February 17, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Hector. With a passive upper half, relaxed lead arm and proper weight shift. The internal rotation won't be a thought. It will happen automatically. This is the break down or nuts and bolts of what is happening. Only in extreme circumstances would you need to think that much in depth. If you pull with your lead side properly and with the upper half passive the club will naturally shallow. Leaving you only to release properly by not flipping the lead elbow.
February 17, 2017
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Brad
I can't reconcile the nstrictions to post on the lead leg, which moves the club down, and to feel (?) as if the left shoulder is moving down on the down swing. These seem directly in opposition of each other. Doesn't the lead shoulder rise a bit as we post on that leg?
January 6, 2017
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brad. The lead shoulder may rise a little, but the proper posting up and behind you will keep the spine angle down and in the shot. Take a look at You Hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs.
January 6, 2017
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David
I can't seem to find the Curing Elbow Pain video you reference.
December 13, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Use the Cure the Chicken Wing Video and the Left Elbow Position at Impact Video as substitute. The one I was referring too is now only available through a swing review.
December 14, 2016
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Corby
I have difficulties implementing this part of the swing properly - left arm in downswing. Everything looks fairly good until literally just before/at impact. At this point a flaw shows up really fast! My left elbow comes into my left side and pulls up my side (it actually hinges to do this - elbow pointing somewhat backwards). At the same time my right hand follows along and flips. (I still hit the ball straight, however). I don't know if left arm is the cause or the effect. This poses huge problems to my progress! I suspect you have seen this before. Which drill will help the most with this?
December 9, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Corby. Take a look at the Left Elbow Position at Impact Video and Cure Chicken Wing Video. It sounds like you are still trail side dominant. You need to work on releasing with the lead and getting the elbow lined up as close as possible.
December 9, 2016
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Kyle
I have been a golfer that has always pushed my left arm in the takeaway and therefore have had a very flat swing. After several months of RST, I am learning to use my right scapula and obliques to achieve a proper backswing. One fault persists and that is rotating my left hand and wrist at the top of my backswing leading to an open club face and a fade on the ball flight. Any suggestions for a drill or should I focus more on my left wrist staying flat during the takeaway ? Thanks
December 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Kyle. Focus on the wrist positioning in the takeaway. One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway Video and the Using the Wrist Effectively and Efficiently. Maintain a slight cupping better in the initial phases of the swing to not over rotate at the top.
December 2, 2016
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Kyle
Thanks---In the second sentence, are these two videos or drills?
December 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The second sentence are two videos. "One Simple Key to Fix Your Takeaway" - "Using the Wrists Effectively and Efficiently"
December 3, 2016
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Michael
How do I train myself to watch the golf ball in the backswing and through to Impact. I tend to have too many swing thoughts which may blur my focus. I then look away from the ball too early through Impact. I have done this for many years and it is difficult to break the habit. I would appreciate any assistance. Thank you
November 23, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Its not as important going back that you stay as glued as possible. But, more important that in the downswing and through impact the eyes stay down. I would work yourself back up from the release. Take a look at Fix Your Release and start hitting small released shots keeping the head down. Gradually make it longer from there.
November 23, 2016
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Eduardo
There is some problem in trying to turn the arm and left shoulder as rapid as possible in the downswing, because I noticed a progress in my swing speed doing this, from 103 up to 110, but also I noticed that I was getting tired the arm quickly with the repetitions. Is there any recommendation on this matter? To activate the left arm the maximum that one could? Or try to not be 100%, how much would recommended ? thanks
October 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Eduardo. It sounds like you are activating the arm too much. There needs to be a blend of tension free, but with some control. Take a look at the Step 3 Video and You hit the Golf Ball with Your Legs. Let the lead side guide the arm down, but stay tension free enough to let speed occur.
October 31, 2016
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Andreas
I get a little bit confusedand have problems to get the thing together: I thought that all the movement Codes from the body and the legs. Hands and arms are not doing anything. Following this video it Sems that I consciously or actively have to do something with my left arm at least - if not wirth my left hand as well. Could you help toi get out here? Thanks - Andreas
October 16, 2016
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Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Andreas. The arms do have a role in the down swing and it is covered in the left and right arm videos. The legs and core are the driving factors that propel and pull the arms. Think that the leg and core are the big trucks that pull the race cars (arms and hands). everything is initiated with the legs and weight shift.
October 17, 2016
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Loran
Then, the left arm stays relatively straight and stiff throughout the swing? This is why the players have that left wrist in a bowed position after impact through? Technically, I should focus solely on bowing the wrist, and not worry about the entire left arm, elbow, or shoulder? Keep the body quiet, without the sheer force and violence of speed?
September 23, 2016
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Micah (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi, Loran. The left arm should have some flex and should not be locked out. Locking out poses the potential for hyperextension of the elbow joint. Usually the easiest way to get this position is to focus on the bowing or flat wrist. From your view in first person looking at your wrist, it will almost seem like the back of your hand is aimed down. If you take the club out of your hand you should be able to look down into your palm. look into the mirror with a face on view and you will notice that your watch or logo on the glove will be aimed at the target. Focus on this and the rest will follow.
September 24, 2016
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J david
Great video, but I am a bit confused on the relatively fixed position of the elbow here vs the rotation that occurs during the "release." How are they related? Timed? Thanks
August 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello J. You have to keep the elbow from flipping over. You release the wrist/forearm and not the elbow. Take a look at Left Elbow Position at Impact Video and the Curing Elbow Pain Video.
August 29, 2016
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Greg
Two things: 1) I have trouble getting the club to flatten on the downswing. Is there something I can do to make this happen naturally or do I just work in front of a mirror? 2) In this video Chuck is trying to compress the ball. In the driver swing it's more of a sweep, is the motion the same but with more access tilt?
August 27, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. Better lead side shift and a mirror help with flattening out the club (How to Fix Plane and Path Video and the Over the Top Stick Drill). The motion with the driver is the same, but setup is changed (ball position and axis tilt) to catch at a different time in the swing.
August 29, 2016
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Peter
Very good video for golfers like me who are too right-side dominant. You guys do a wonderful job demonstrating the biomechanics of the golf swing. Peter
August 26, 2016
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Chuck
Thanks Peter! Work on the left arm in your downswing and good things will start to happen!
August 26, 2016
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Ryan
Would it be beneficial getting a training aid that keeps the lead arm straight? With the obvious understanding that it wouldn't work to finish the follow through.
August 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ryan. Typically, the left arm bends at the top due to over folding the trail arm. In the downswing, a poor release and/or throwing early with the trail hand. I don't think a training aid would be the best cure for the cause.
August 26, 2016
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Marc
Hi I always struggle to keep the left arm straight in the backswing. Will the rotation of the left forearm after the takeaway help to keep the arm straighter? Best, Marc
July 10, 2016
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marc- The left arm will rotate going back to the top and if it doesn't typically the result is a breakdown of the left arm. So some rotation is needed to keep the left arm straight. It also could be a lack of rotation with the torso going to the top. Make sure you continue to rotate as the arms go into the vertical plane and the left arm will naturally be in the proper position.
July 10, 2016
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Marc
Thanks
July 10, 2016
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William
Todd; I have worked on my grip, I have worked on left hand release, but I cannot get the club square at impact. I know I need to slow down the release and start it earlier in the downswing, but even when I slow down the release my club is closed and I cannot get the back of my hand square with a club in my hand. I can do it without the club, but not with the club. HELP.
June 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. Have you posted a swing for review? Take a look at the video Curing Elbow Pain and Fix Your Release to help with square the face.
June 24, 2016
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Todd
I can't separate my wrist action from my elbow action at the speed a golf swing happens, this is sad because I think this is where my left miss/ pull hook comes from , any secret way to make this happen
May 19, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Todd. Take a look at the Curing Elbow Pain Video. Let me know the results.
May 20, 2016
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Walter
This is by far the best video for my golf game. The point about how the left shoulder works down to the ball and the chest covers the ball is worth everything I payed to view this site. I wish you made a hole video on just those points alone . Thank you.
May 16, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Walter for the compliments. If you liked this video about the lead shoulder down. Combine with the Level Shoulders Drill.
May 16, 2016
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Mitchell
Ben Hogan was not a shoulder spinner. Ben Hogan has one video where he explains the golf swing. http://youtu.be/w4w2kX2aVlI He emphasizes the exact opposite of shoulder spinning. In fact in his book and the video link I just inserted above, his swing teachings seem to have lain the ground work for everything in Rotary Swing and Teaching the golf swing. There are very few differences. Except Ben Hogan is a legend.
May 10, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mitchell. I hope you are well today. I agree that Ben Hogan laid the ground work for many and much of the golf instruction out there today. Also, with the tip from the video that the lower half needs to lead the way down and not forcing it from the top. However, RST's Methodology and Teaching wasn't based on Ben Hogan's Swing or Theories. Take a look at the Truths of Instruction Series Videos in the Introduction Section. Rotary didn't start by copying one person's swing or theories, but with the goal to provide a swing based on total objectivity and science. Using biomechanics to create an efficient yet repeatable motion that produces results while being safe on the body. Great players before RST did figure out what works for them and what should happen in the swing. However, we only teach what we can prove 100% by science. All the research done for the RST Swing and teaching was brought about by looking at what the body needs to do to swing the club correctly. Not, by what a great player or swinger does which produces results for him or her.
May 11, 2016
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Mitchell
It was a great video by Ben Hogan. I hope you watched it. My point was Chuck Said Hogan was a shoulder spinner and that's why he hooked the ball. He wasn't and his theory on the swing was identical to chucks. He emphasizes that shoulder spinning was the incorrect way to swing.
May 11, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mitchell. I watched the video. I love the old Shell's Wonderful World of Golf. Hogan fought too much body spin and hooking. Hogan like a lot of pros emphasize lower body movement first. However, he would get caught up in shoulder spinning from time to time because of how aggressive his lower body action would get. The lower body starting the downswing is similar to RST, but there are a lot of differences in his swing versus RST. For example: His swing plane is vastly different than RST. I like though that you are noticing that better players use their lower half efficiently to play great golf. You are seeing the proper elements.
May 12, 2016
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Stephen
Hi Craig, I have a worked on fixing my weight transfer video. When I hit balls I externally rotate my knee and I pull weight which pulls my hips and torso. My shoulders are still lagging a little bit behind tho, and appears still relatively closed. You give me this LADD video in my last review. Will the pull with the lead arm help with my torso/shoulders lagging behind. It's just the pulling from fixing the weight transfer with the throwing motion is not rotating my shoulders. Should I actively try and pull my shoulders with the external rotation of the throwing motion? Thanks. Stephen
April 18, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. You don't want to actively try and rotate the shoulders too much in the downswing. However, adding little bit of pull from the lead arm in this video should help the shoulders follow better and get closer to the stacked positioning. Externally rotate knee, pull weight, torso and pull with lead arm (not yank) should start to correct the issue. Don't spin or lock out the shoulders. Let them react more as of consequence with the proper lead side usage.
April 18, 2016
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Stephen
Thanks. Stephen
April 18, 2016
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David
Hi Craig, This is a great video but I am a bit confused when we get to the business of the lead shoulder working downwards into the ball and the feeling of the chest 'covering' the ball. My shoulder will work down initially but followed by an upward movement into impact as per the poster behind Chuck. Have I got the sequence wrong?
April 13, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. It will be more of a feeling of the lead shoulder working or staying down. When you post up there will be some raise as in the picture in the background. It is due to you are rotating around the spine and not trying to create shoulder tilt. The Level Shoulders Drill will contain more information as well.
April 13, 2016
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steve
dear rst, i am naturally left handed but i golf right. i have been very leftside dominate at differant times in my golf life and it feels most natural to me but have had inconsistency with it. like squaring the club face and hitting shots off the turf. then would go more right side and get all messed up. the ladd video makes a lot of sense to me. do you have any thoughts or advice. thnx, steve
March 2, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. I would say stick with being left arm dominant. Even though in the past you have used the lead arm. It still needs to have the proper mechanical usage. The only time where the right would need to come into play. Is if you starting creating too much lag without the ability to get rid of it. Or, if the right arm is so poorly trained that it needs to be taught the correct motion again. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill in addition to this one.
March 2, 2016
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Sean
I am a little confused by the whole sequence of the downswing after this video. It seems like everything I have watched talks about the downswing being completely controlled by the lower body and to be totally quiet with the upper body until the release of the club. The left arm is part of the upper body and this video makes it seem like it has a role right from the top of the downswing. Should I be being pulling the left arm down at the same time I am starting to sit into my left side and driving left heel into the ground? Thanks
February 25, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Sean. Some players don't use the left arm enough, or have trained the left arm to not follow proper physics and a ground up motion. Don't get confused by the video. It is just a very detailed explanation of what is happening. I agree the swing is ground up and lower body controlled. Shifting and staying passive with the shoulders and allowing the lead arm to swing down is correct. However, some players have trained to not allow proper function of the lead arm. Therefore, needing a little more info or guidance to help pull it down in front of them better.
February 25, 2016
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Jerome
Hello i ve startd to work on this video following my first review. And I ve realised that at setup my 2 elbows are quiet à lot externally rotated. This makes difficult to end the move like said With the elbow pointing to the target. If i want the club face to be square then my elbow is externally rotated. Thus i changed my setup so that my elbows are neutral. Was that the thing to do?
January 30, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jerome. The arms should be hanging neutrally at address with the elbow pits pointed away from the body. Not pointed away or externally rotated so much that the arms can't rotate efficiently. Take a look at how the arms hang with the Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box Video and the Right Elbow Pit at Address.
January 30, 2016
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Dave
If I try to keep my left elbow facing the target, my left wrist is at a 45 degree angle to the target line. I cannot force my elbow and the back of my hand facing the target at the same time. The only way I am able to do this is to keep the back of my left shoulder facing the target at impact. What is the correct way to keep the elbow and back of the left hand facing the target at the same time or is that the goal? Or should the back of the left hand be facing down at impact instead?
January 24, 2016
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. The goal is to have the back of the lead hand facing the target without flipping the elbow over. Take a look at the Left Elbow Impact Alignments Video. The elbow might not be perfect down the line. However, the goal is to keep from flipping it to release the club.
January 25, 2016
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Greg
When hitting a driver, do you still have this feeling a covering the ball? Does the shoulder work down on the driver on the downswing like it does on the irons?
December 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Greg. You won't have the feeling of covering the ball as in the iron. It will feel more leveled out. The shoulders will work the same, but you will add a little more axis tilt at address with a forward ball position to help with launch angle.
December 22, 2015
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Michael
Hi I stuffed the impact bag with a blanket and old clothes. Well when it comes apart I will buy another.
December 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Just checking to make sure you weren't using rocks or sand. I have seen some strange combinations. Sorry, for the manufacturer defects.
December 15, 2015
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Michael
This is a great video. I bought an impact bag at Dick's sporting goods and only using my left arm and a choke down 3 wood I measured my swing at 72 mph after two weeks practice. Unfortunately the bag split apart at the seams. I purchased a bag from you and the same thing is now occurring. Is there a more durable bag I can purchase? I am now getting great results and want to start adding the right arm
December 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. I am glad you are improving. Apologize about the impact bag issues. I am unaware of a more durable one. I have used mine for years without issues. What are you stuffing the bag with?
December 14, 2015
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william
Is there a pulling action of the left arm in the swing thanks,bill c
November 29, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello William. The left arm (right handed player) will need a little bit of pull. Take a look at the Frisbee Drill and Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag.
November 30, 2015
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Kel
I have been working on one part of the downswing for 6 months & hit thousands & thousands of golf balls and still have not been able to fix it. I am a low handicap and my biggest problem is that my shoulders rotate too fast causing my hands to not be able to catch up. I have analyzed tons of professional golfers swings in slow motion & noticed that Rickie Fowler does one of the best jobs of controlling his shoulders rotation and syncing up the hands and shoulders on the downswing. I have tried feeling like I am not rotating the shoulders at all, I've tried focusing on dropping the hands (or left arm), I've tried to getting the feeling of speeding up my hands on the downswing to "beat my shoulders to the golf ball", I've tried focusing on leaving the right shoulder staying faced away from the target. Shouldn't the hands naturally sync up with the shoulders on the downswing if everything else is done correctly (such as the backswing done correctly and shifting of the lower body to the left side correctly on the downswing). No matter what I try I cannot for the life of me get my hands and shoulders synced up. Please help!!
November 8, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Kel. I understand the frustration. I was once a shoulder spinner myself. The two ways I got over the hump. 1) Giving into gravity. If you watch the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Video. Chuck will talk about what happens if you turn off the body and giving up trying to race the arm swing. Give in to gravity. Learn how to shut off over active muscles. 2) I would practice with my trail foot dropped back a touch. When I would reach the backswing. I would feel that my body would stay in the shut position and not release it till the arms and hands passed my chest at impact.
November 9, 2015
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Joseph
Recently started trying to get L arm more ahead of ball at impact and feels like i am doing so based on proprioception and launch angle, but am having a non trivial number of hits occur on the heel, esp woods (at least it feels like the heel). My guess is that I may be getting the left hand more ahead of the ball at impact but probably not rotating it enough and so leading with the heel, thus causing the heel hits. Whadda ya think?
November 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joseph. That would make sense. If the lead arm continues to pull and there is a lack of face rotation. You can easily start striking the heel.
November 5, 2015
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Jim
I have a hard time getting the club and shoulder properly aligned at impact in that my left shoulder keeps on spinning up/out prematurely. Should the feeling I have is getting the left hip in a position so it serves as a brace so this does not happen? Thanks, Jim
October 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jim. Posting or bracing on the lead leg is a good thing to train. This would help, but you need to allow the arms to swing down without trying to force the arms down by dropping the trail side.
October 26, 2015
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Giovanni
My left (front) wrist is sore on the lateral aspect above my pinky. Could this be an additional pain besides the elbow pain you were talking about caused by the improper swing?
October 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Giovanni. It could be. More than likely due to improper release though. Check that grip and make sure you are keeping the tension properly. Vijay Release Drill.
October 23, 2015
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Gary
IMPORTANT QUESTION - I am a little unclear az to when the right wrist begins the rotation. The video talks about thd rotation starting early in the downswing but it appears that it starts at approximately the right hip. I understand the position of the left elbow being down the line and it looks like the back of the left hand is pointed 90 degrees to the target line until it gets to the right leg then it rotates from there from the forearm down to the wrist. Can you please clarify where the forearm and wrist begin to rotate on the downswing? Thanks in advance Gary
October 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Take a look at the Golf Swing Release Drill and the Martin Kaymer Releasing for Speed Video. Both will help explain.
October 21, 2015
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Gary
I watched them and have questions and comments for that video in the comments section Thanks
October 22, 2015
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Gary
I watched the trace the plane video. It appears to me that the forearm / wrist roll begins at the top while keeping the swing plane? My problem was exposed watching this video. I was dropping the club too far inside thus my shoulders came from under and thus made me come up and out of the shot. I had no idea that the shaft was off plane and by rollling the wrist/ forearm from the top it may help me from getting stuck and comd out of the shot. I realize now i was relying on my athletic ability to flip the club through the hitting zone. Problem is on my unathletic days i would hit the ball all over the yard.
October 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. Yes, the club will always be rotating. Now, it will rotate at different rates throughout the swing. But, you sound like you are back on track.
October 21, 2015
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Gary
Craig to clarify my question - Does the rotation of the wrist and forearm start to rotate at the beginning of the downswing while keeping the elbow stationary and moving down and to the path of the line of the shot direction? Also during the downswing and rotation of the wrist and forearm does the path of the swing plane remain the same as the backswing? Thanks Gary
October 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Gary. The elbow should move in front of the body and work down into the hitting area based on the weight shift, lower half rotation, and a little gravity. Yes, it should remain pretty close to the same plane, but can be dependent on how much torso rotation from the player.
October 22, 2015
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Gary
Personal opinion this is the most important video on this site. The left elbow staying stationary and rotating the left wrist only completely corrected my club head position at impact. Before seeing this video I was the gut pulling down with my left arm and trying to rotate the entire arm through the hitting zone. My ball flights went from a push block to a straight to draw ball fight and increased my distance substantially. This is not something that can be corrected with one trip to the range. It took me literally hitting over 2,000 golf balls before my muscles memorized the movement. Thanks for this video now I just refine it and make it better Thanks again Gary
October 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Gary. I agree. This video is very vital in understanding lead arm movement in the swing. Happy to hear you are starting to see some improvement.
October 21, 2015
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Marcus
Hey guys, So I am defiantly a shoulder spinner. The problem I'm having is separating the motion of pulling the right arm down (I'm left handed) while keeping my shoulders closed. I tend to want spin my shoulders when I pull the right arm down.Are there any drills that might help with this??
October 9, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Marcus. This video will help. Also, the Level Shoulders Drill, 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release and the Fix Your Release. To achieve the proper release the lead shoulder has to stay in the shot.
October 9, 2015
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Preston
I tend to have a shut club face coming into impact and either got a push draw or a draw that starts to far left from the start at my target. I set with it up square, at least I think, and during my takeaway, I see that it's shut. When I try to keep it open, it flares out open on the backswing and its a flip at impact. When I do the impact drills. My club far I think is shut as well.
October 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Preston. Use the Forearm Rotation in the Golf Swing Video and the RST Pencil Tee Drill to help with the shut face going back. Also, the Left Elbow Impact Alignments to help the shut face at impact.
October 7, 2015
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Troy
Should ideally it feel like the left arm and shoulder is taking the club back and supporting most of the weight of the club and the right hand and side is doing very little?
October 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Troy. The left arm will help support the club in the backswing. However, you want the right side pulling and supporting the plane. Both arms have a job to do.
October 5, 2015
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Loran
The only time I am allowed to lift my head and get out of my impact position behind the ball is when the ball has taken flight and sometimes landed?
September 26, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. Once, you get to the 3 O'clock position you can start to allow your head to move up into a full finish.
September 28, 2015
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Michael
OK now I understand impact position. Of course I had most of the faults described. People always tell me what a great swing I have but I feel no power, hit a lot of toe and thin by working my left shoulder up quickly. Well I bought an impact bag and plan to wear it out.
September 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Glad you are learning more about your swing and identifying the faults.
September 4, 2015
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Stephen
Hi Craig, can shifting weight to the left and pulling oblique to quickly cause a steep plane in the downswing? When I make full swings it appears that my swing is over the top. My good full swings were with my shoulders slightly closed when I shifted my weight, then I pulled my oblique when club was waist height. Would I be sensible drilling to keep my shoulders closed when I shift to the left? Or am I better waiting until my next review? Stephen
September 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Stephen. Usually the trail side is the culprit in steepening the plane. You can feel that the shoulder or back stay pointed longer towards the target when you practice shifting.
September 4, 2015
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David
At address does the left elbow point down the target line? when I look at Chucks swing and even yours Craig it definitely looks that way? Thanks.
August 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. It might appear that way, but the lead elbow will be pointing away from the body at address. Chuck talks a little about this in the Gorilla Grip Video. You don't want to force a locked or massive externally rotated position. Relaxed and pointed away.
August 25, 2015
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Loran
This left arm is a gradual rotation from the top of the swing? I was taught to flip it on impact alignment. Is there a video that elaborates from from the top of the backswing and illustrates how to lower the arms into square face angle before impact?
August 22, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Loan. The Trace the Plane Line and the Left Hand Release Drill are the only ones to my knowledge that will show how the lower arms help square the face into impact.
August 24, 2015
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matt
I notice when Chuck first starts with the impact bag, he has to physically move his elbow to point down the line. Can you explain? Mine looks very close to his the very first time he does it before he adjusts it. Thanks. Matt
August 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matt. Take a look at the Left Elbow Impact Alignments Video. I think it will clear up more of what the lead arm/elbow are doing when Chuck makes that adjustment.
August 21, 2015
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Howard
One thing Chuck mentions in this video is that at address the club face should be square to the target. If the club face is square to the target at address and the left wrist has a slight cup and it should be flat at impact with the hands ahead then it seems to me that the club face would be right of the target at impact (sorry for the run on sentence). So I was thinking that I should address the ball with a slightly closed club face?
August 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Howard. Having a bowed wrist doesn't change club face angle. You are turning down the lead knuckles. No need to setup closed. Take a look at the Knuckles Down Drill.
August 19, 2015
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Howard
Thanks. Of all the drills on this site I believe the knuckles down drill will help me the most. I've never hit the ball with my knuckles down.
August 19, 2015
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David
I was watching this video yesterday when I had a thought after Chuck was talking about the pulling of the left arm and I realized that when I move my arms at all in the downswing or even backswing the force of movement comes from my hands and wrists never my arms, so after this thought I took a few swings using my arms to elevate and pull down with very little movement coming from the hands or wrists and the positions I achieved were incredible and the speed and impact were unlike anything I've ever experienced before, not to mention it completely eliminated my over the top and across the line swing faults, does this make sense to anyone? Thanks. (also I'm not saying I only used my arms yes I was still using my big muscles to rotate the body Chris)
August 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. Makes sense to me. Think about skipping a rock. The origin of movement comes from pulling the arm, extending at the elbow and releasing the rock with the hand. You are just following the chain of command and storing the energy to release into the strike.
August 5, 2015
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Jason
I've looked at my face on view of my impact and noticed that my hands tend to bottom out near my trail thigh, I lose lag very early and I tend to drag the club through. The hands may look like a flip very soon after as I turn it over. this whole time I think I was only letting gravity come down and "winging it" ie no conscious process to the down swing. My weight transfer looks decent, also subconscious. So based on this, I am supposed to add some left arm pull--> which then will get my hands in front of the front thigh for impact, keep lag longer, and prevent flipping early?
July 28, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jason -- You have the name of a champion!!! Are you starting down with you arms too early in the downswing? Are you making sure there is limited tension in the right hand (from pushing against the club) or the left thumb (doing the same)? If you arms get pulled down into the hitting area before you lower body has fully shifted, you run the risk of shifting the bottom of the swing arc back and you would encounter the problems that you are having. I would suggest that you submit your swings for review and let us have a close look so we can best determine what is going on.
July 28, 2015
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Jason
thanks for your reply, I think the problem is from inaccurate wt shift. But I am still working on pretty much step one trying to be perfect before getting to advanced. As far as the name goes (J Day), my only claim to fame is that I had my name first because I think I'm older, Beyond that I fail to give the name that much respect on the course
July 29, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
hahaha you do get to claim the first name for sure. Keep working and the last name will fit. Make sure you clean up your weight shift into the lead side and that will help solve a lot of problems.
July 29, 2015
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Damien
I am a bit confused, with this drill it seems to me that the sequence for the downswing is weight shift and then the left arm starts down, is this correct? Also does the left arm rotates after impact as part of the release?
July 28, 2015
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Damien- COrrect for both questions. Sequencing in the downswing is very important for consistent shots. We first want to shift the weight into the lead leg, as that is happening-due to gravity-the arms are dropping back in front of the body and then we release the club being pulled into the follow through.
July 28, 2015
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Dan
This drill can improve your swing instantly because you learn what determines the ball's path The left arm, especially the wrist and hand, controls the club face at impact The left elbow should point down the line and the left wrist should be flat at impact For the drill, keep the left shoulder shut, elbow pointing down the line, and rotate the wrist through the entire downswing Practice with arms only, then add a club & impact bag - stop and check form at impact The goal is to have everything aligned at impact - left shoulder over left hip, knee & ankle You should feel that your chest is over, or "covering" the ball
July 27, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. Great notes! Anything I can help you with?
July 27, 2015
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Martin
I'm getting some pain and aches on my left forearm on the outside through impact. I don't think I'm flipping the club, maybe I'm not releasing properly, but what would that ache be attributed to typically?
July 7, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Martin. Could be soreness from using new muscles or flipping the arm. Take a look at the Left Elbow Impact Alignments Video in the Advanced Downswing.
July 7, 2015
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Seth
Is it possible to perform a complete backswing with only the left arm as one would in an actual shot-making situation? I'm currently trying to train myself to be more "left side dependent" and less "right side dominant" so I'm wondering if full left side swings would be effective or if swinging left-side only would create other bad habits.
June 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Seth. You can make a left arm only backswing and still rotate back with the right side, but it is very hard. I could foresee an issue where you just start pushing the club. Take a look at How to Create a Swing Plane in the Backswing Section.
June 25, 2015
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michael
Hi Craig, great video but how do you internally rotate your left arm from the top of the backswing while rotating the clubface back to square simultaneously Thanks Mike
June 25, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Take a look at Proper Muscle Activation in the Introduction Advanced Section for a good visual. The pull from the lead arm and internal rotation will start to shallow out the club. The wrist/hand will be doing the majority of the squaring up. Don't think of it as hand rotates in and out at the same time. Use your shift, pull and gravity to initially shallow the plane. From there you will keep pulling and start to square up the face with the lead hand/wrist (release).
June 25, 2015
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Christian
wow ! this is a great explanation on the role of the right arm ( iam left handed) I played right handed for 20 years and 3 years ago I switched to my dominant side ! I was disapointed when i saw this video cause my dominant hand was my left so when i was playing right it was ok but i think the dominant side have an important role cause when iam doing this drill , my right hand control the club i can swing the club pretty fast, its here i think my dominant side are important : to transfert my weight propely, like skipping rock that i cannot do whit my right hand. I replicated the one right hand drill ( iam left handed dominant) with both hand on the club but let my left hand relax... crazy !!!! i was am able to shit my weight and i can feel the lag comming... the same as if i was playing whit one hand. here is my question : how can i use now my left arm more ? ... i think that arm is doing something but i cannot tell what it is. The only thing i know it`s a great feeling and i smash the ball pretty hard !
June 24, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Christian. It is more important to own the lead arm training first. Don't worry about the trail arm right now. When you get better and can master a good pull with the lead arm. Take a look at the Throw the Ball Drill in the Downswing Section and the Right Arm Release Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 24, 2015
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Rick
So the left arm is crossing center independent of the torso and shoulders. Is that right?
June 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rick. Yes, the lead lat is helping the the arms back in front.
June 17, 2015
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Lee
When I try to keep my shoulders closed while shifting into the left side and pulling the arms down since I have been a shoulder spinner I find that I don't get my left shoulder over my left knee. My shoulders seems to stay back increasing my axis tilt. Am I maybe just not allowing my shoulders to shift over with the weight shift because I am keeping them where they are in trying to keep them closed? Any thoughts as to why I am not able to get my left shoulder over my left knee as it should be? Should the shoulders be laterally shifting with the hips in the downswing? Thanks.
June 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. It sounds like you are holding the shoulders closed and keeping them from shifting with your weight. When you pull yourself to the lead side the body still needs to shift over than ankle. Trying to keep the shoulders shut longer or trail shoulder passive is good. But, you need to make sure the whole body shifts over the lead ankle joint. Take a look at the Level Shoulders Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 12, 2015
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Lee
Oh ok so you are saying your shoulders should shift laterally as well with the hips then? If so that is probably what I am not doing from trying to keep the shoulders closed the wrong way in trying to keep them in place too not letting them move initially instead of letting them move latterally with the hips just while they are closed.
June 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. Yes. If you focus on keeping the trail shoulder back or passive. When you shift your weight it starts from the ground up. But, you need to be aware that the whole body will shift over the ankle, not just a bump of the hip.
June 13, 2015
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Lee
Hmmm ok then I have had another question. How do you shift your shoulders over too since it is supposed to start with the lower body? Is the upper body passively supposed to be moved over by the lower body because if so mine don't seem to move over quite far enough without me trying to do it myself.
June 13, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Lee. I emailed a response to you to help clarify. You still shift from the ground - up. The upper half is just allowed to follow.
June 13, 2015
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James
Could you elaborate on the response that you gave to Lee I feel I could be having the same issue. On video my shoulder never seems to get stacked left either and one of my big work on is keeping the shoulder closed just like Lee mentioned. Thanks
August 22, 2015
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JONATHAN
My instructor has me working on the LADD video and reshaping your swing for lag focusing on the left. i tend to swing with the shoulders and they are very open at impact and the lead shoulder is much higher than the trail. I am supposed to be working on keeping the shoulders level at impact which is fine with the left arm only drills but when i add the right (even as a passenger with almost no grip) the left is a little higher than the right. Am i working to get the shoulders parallel to the ground or is the lead slightly higher at impact? I watched the level shoulders at impact video, but that seemed to address hip spinners and i didnt know if it is the same for me. Thanks in advance for clarifying
June 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jonathan. The feel will be the shoulders are level to the ground, but in actuality they will not be. The trail hand is lower on the club, therefore reaching pure parallel is a tough job. Also, you add a little axis tilt to facilitate better rotation back. You want to maintain that.
June 4, 2015
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Anthony
I'm having an issue with the left shoulder raising at impact. It feels like my right shoulder jams into my body laterally and my left shoulder gets forced up, which increases my axis tilt. My left hip is in neutral joint alignment at impact, I just can't seem to pass the club face through the ball without pushing my right shoulder under my chin. This results in a high ball flight. As I focus on the left arm in the downswing, should my left lat be pulling my left shoulder down and toward my spine at impact to keep it from coming up?
June 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Anthony. Have you taken a look at the Level Shoulders Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section? You do need to use the lead lat to help pull the arm. You might need to clear the hips a little more with lead oblique pull. The Sledgehammer Video in the Downswing Advanced Section will help with the trail shoulder push underneath the chin.
June 3, 2015
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Anthony
Thank you, Craig.
June 3, 2015
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Seth
This makes total sense from a drill perspective and working the drill slowly. Does the sequencing - slow motion feel transfer when you add more speed and eventually at fullspeed with lag? Would a low handicapper try and feel this move at full speed when they are playing or just let the swing happen? Thanks
June 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Seth. Eventually, you would want to arrive at a point to just let it happen. Like the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section. Yes, it will transfer and allow you to swing on plane better with lag when performing at pace.
June 2, 2015
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edward
So the left shoulder stays internally rotated from the top of the swing until impact while the left wrist rotates the club to square at impact. The left wrist obviously continues to rotate past impact. My question is at exactly what point past impact does the left shoulder begin to externally rotate in conjunction with the folding of the left elbow, which Craig notes below begins at hip height, and at what rate to the completion of the swing. Any keys to reinforce this sequencing?
May 17, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. After you release the club the finish position is very reactionary. It is the deceleration of momentum. After the 3 O'clock position just like the backswing the lead arm will start to externally rotate.
May 18, 2015
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Matthew
I can do this when I rotate my left arm 90 degrees which creates a swing plane that is way too flat. The hard part for me is to get the normal 50-70 degrees of rotation to the backswing and then actually add the other 20-40 degrees of internal rotation all while rotating my forearm in the opposite direction coming into the downswing in such a short time. Not only that but it seems in slow motion when I add that extra internal rotation on the downswing that it makes my downswing plane way too underplane, but that could be bc I'm not rotating my forearm externally enough while internally rotating my upper arm. Isn't it difficult too internally and externally rotate the same arm simultaneously?
May 12, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Matthew. Maybe you are overdoing the move. Take a look at the Trace the Plane Line Video in the Downswing Advanced Section.
May 12, 2015
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Brent
So i understand. The down swing is initiated by the weight transfer and the pulling down with the lead arm? How do the shoulders work in the down swing?
May 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brent. Yes. The shoulders are actually very passive in the downswing. You want to keep the trail shoulder as passive as possible to allow working down on plane. Take a look at the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Downswing and the Move 3 Video in the Downswing Section and you will they are doing relatively little in comparison.
May 11, 2015
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Peter
Hiya. Working on your swing process. I am still pulling the ball slightly left of target, should I actively try to pull the club down and through with my left arm? I've been a chronic over user of right arm/ shoulder from the top for years Thanks Pete
May 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. If you are pulling the ball and have been a trail side pusher in the past. You might be coming over the top. You need to shift and pull with the lead arm while the trail side is passive. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Section.
May 4, 2015
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Robert
Would you suggest setting up at address with the left elbow pointing directly down the target line or close? I have a tendency for my left elbow to point more towards my left hip at address and probably impact too. I feel like this is effecting my consistency.
April 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. Take a look at the Golf Grip and Being Out of the Box Video and the Gorilla Grip in the Setup Section. You want the elbow pits to point away from you at address.
April 23, 2015
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Steve
Isn't it difficult at impact to have the back of your hand match your club face if you have a strong grip? I understand how you can do that with a neutral grip, but not a strong or weak grip. Similarly, at the top of the backswing the videos generally show a flat left hand, does that work for someone whose grip isn't neutral?
March 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steve. If you have an overly strong grip you are correct on both points. We suggest a grip that is just slightly stronger than neutral that will give you the best of both worlds. Speed and the ability to flatten the lead wrist efficiently. Take a look at the Golf Grip How To Video in the Setup Section. It isn't as weak as you might think.
March 21, 2015
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Steve
Thanks. The video was helpful as I noticed that my grip was too much in the fingers of each hand. Its easier to square up the back of the wrist with my club face now.
March 23, 2015
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Steve
i have a very difficult time keeping the back of my left hand from hinging backwards after impact, which obviously affects my release. The right arm is generating so much more speed i can't keep up with my left hand. i know that we are supposed to pull from the left side but the right side is so much faster. any suggestions?
March 27, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Try the Vijay drill, which there is a video for on the site.
March 27, 2015
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Seth
Do you recommend perfecting this drill then moving on to the 9-3 drill or perfect the 9-3 drill first then move on to perfect this drill?
March 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Seth. Chicken or Egg? All depends on your biggest weakness. If you can't seem to shallow out with the 9 to 3 into impact, but still getting good lead side shift. Start taking out the trail side push. Use the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section, Stop Coming Over the Top and Over the Top Stick Drill in the Downswing - Downswing Advanced Section.
March 16, 2015
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Scott
I have been working on 9-3 and feel that I am cutting across the ball. So I came back to view this LADD drill and everything seems fine until I add my right hand... and I am back to feeling like I am cutting across the ball from outside in.
March 14, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Scott. You need to turn off the trail shoulder push. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section and the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section to help. Over the Top Stick Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section for extreme circumstances.
March 14, 2015
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Steven
I have a chicken wing problem! I am incorporating this drill into my practicing, but I notice one MAJOR thing... As I am bringing my left arm down through impact, or parallel, my hand isn't squaring up, perpendicular, at impact. when I do square my hand and club head at impact, I notice that the nape (or inside) of my elbow is outside parallel by about 20 degrees. Am I doing the drill correctly?
March 8, 2015
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Steven, I would double check your grip at the address position and make sure that is perfect and hasnt gone too weak. If it has gone weak, you will have to rotate the wrist excessively in the hitting area, thus giving you the appearance that you are describing here. Tough for me to tell without seeing it in action though. Maybe try focusing on some 9 to 3 swings with just the lead hand on the club, make sure grip is perfect, and allow the lead arm to swing underneath the shoulder freely and see if you get the same sort of elbow appearance.
March 9, 2015
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Richard
My problem has always been keeping the left arm straight, going back and especially at impact and beyond. Besides hundreds (thousands) of reps, do you have a solution to keeping the left arm straight. It is affecting my very short pitch shots, going back and thru for even shots of 10 yards. Must say, BEST instruction ever. One month and I'm really improving and not hitting many balls on the range as yet. Thanks in advance. Rich
March 2, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Richard. The lead arm folding in the backswing is usually the trail arms fault. If you focus on not allowing the trail am to bend more than 90 degrees it will be hard for the lead arm to fold. Take a look at the 3 Functions of the Right Arm in the Backswing Advanced Section to master no more than 90 degrees of trail arm flexion. Also, take look at the Chicken Wing Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section. Learn how trail side push allows the lead arm to fold too much and soon.
March 3, 2015
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Randy
First, I love this web site! Chuck’s teaching/RST is SO much better by far than anything I’ve ever seen. I’ve been trying to remake my swing this winter using many of these videos. I’ve been religiously doing 5 Minutes to a Perfect Setup, 5 Minutes to a Perfect Release, 5 Minutes to a Golf Weight Shift, 5 Minutes to Master Rotation for over a month and recently added 5 Minutes to a Perfect Takeaway. After I get my 3,000 – 5,000 reps in on each I’ll be adding others. In that context of extreme appreciation as a devoted student I post this one disagreement for the sake of accuracy and golfing truth. At 2:42 of LADD, Chuck states that, if one has a “proper” grip (i.e. neutral to a bit strong as per his other videos – the V of the left hand pointing about to the right ear) and the left wrist is flat at impact and if the flat wrist is pointed at the target, the club face will be as well – notice he does not have a club in his hand at this point. I believe quite strongly that this is inaccurate and hasn’t been properly analysed. Please try this: forget about where the left wrist is pointing – flatten your left wrist leaning the shaft forward and square the club face to the target line - you’ll see that the left wrist is open something like 20-30° depending on your grip. Rotate the flat left wrist so that it’s parallel to the feet (i.e. pointing toward the target) and the club face will be closed by the same amount – great big hook! The only way I can see to achieve what Chuck is saying is to start with an extremely weak grip – V pointing to the left side of the head. Unconvinced? On this site, check out Jason Duffner Swing Analysis minute 2:53, Harris English (6:07), Bill Haas (1:10), Justin Rose (1:16), Tiger Woods Impact Position (3:56), etc. On each, you will see some of their glove logo at impact – their left wrists are somewhat open (I do realized that the camera angles are not consistent). If the flat left wrist was indeed pointing at the target as described, you would not see any logo. Okay - back to my many drills.
February 28, 2015
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Chuck
Hi randy and great observation. It actually depends on the amount of deviation and rotation of the wrist as well as the amount of now and shaft lean. We use pointing at the target as a guide to get people to a flat to slightly bowed position to get them to stop flipping and this will either hit it very low with it straight at the target or slightly left with less bow. It's a great visual for flippers which represents most golfers.
March 1, 2015
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john
I have persistent problems with overuse of right side and shoulders. With a full shoulder turn in the LADD it emphasizes pulling down with the left arm while keeping shoulders steady. When doing this should I try to keep my shoulders closed for as long as possible and as I understand it they then get pulled open by the arms. Is this correct? Thank you John
February 21, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You will want to feel the shoulders staying a little shut coming down. You seem to be on the right path. Take a look at the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section for more help turning off the right side.
February 21, 2015
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David
I've had tendonitis of my left elbow for years and have to wear a support band on my arm when I play. I never realized before this video that my left elbow was pointing 90 degrees to the target line at impact and this explains the tendonitis. It is very difficult to get the feel of not spinning out my elbow. Which are the best excercises and drills to ingrain this? Thank you very much.
February 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. This video is great with help of positioning of the lead elbow. Also, to cure the ailment make sure you learn how to release the club. Using the wrist more effectively than the elbow. Take a look at the Left Hand Release Drill and the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section.
February 17, 2015
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Robert
audio keeps cutting in and out. Please fix
February 11, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Robert. I'm not having any playback issues on my end. If you are still experiencing the issue. Please contact Customer Support. Happy to help diagnose the problem.
February 12, 2015
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andrew
Hi guys, is there any left tricep contraction in maintaining left elbow towards the target? Also is it correct that the right shoulder stay externally rotated until impact?
February 10, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Andrew. The tricep will be involved a little involved. Not too much though. Yes, you need to maintain your external humeral rotation to impact.
February 12, 2015
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Terry
I've been working the drills given to me over and over and have been able to build a better swing. The bucket drill is a mental image that helps me take the club back. Thanks for that one. This video provides an explanation, I think, for the problem I'm having which is on the full swing, I still pull the ball left of target. I can see that the left elbow is most likely the culprit in that it starts to rotate with the hands and is most likely left of target at impact or shortly after. Does this sound reasonable? I'll watch this again and try to work that left elbow and wrist appropriately. Terry
February 4, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. It sounds reasonable. If you are flipping the arm at impact is can affect the initial launch. Take a look at the Left Elbow Position at Impact in the Downswing Advanced Section for further clarification.
February 5, 2015
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Terry
I've been studying that and as someone else has stated in this forum, the difficulty lies in turning the wrist without turning the elbow. I'm more versed in what this is supposed to look like but getting the feel is going to take time. I think the actions of the upper body prior to impact and the left wrist turning into the ball, is key. Since I'm or was a hip spinner, I'm learning to keep the left shoulder down and to not push off the right foot. THanks for the feedback.
February 5, 2015
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Alejandro
Hello RST, I've been struggling since Saturday trying to make this drill work and I have one problem. When I start lowering the left arm during the drill, It seems that in order to keep the elbow pointing at the target I need to actively prevent the elbow from turning away from the target but at the same time let the wrist turn normally. I'm having a very hard time coordinating this. It does look a lot like what Chuck points out but it's tensing my arm a lot. Is this expected ?? Shouldn't it feel more natural ?? Any other videos that can help me think of a way of coordinating this without killing my forearm ?
February 3, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Alejandro. You are training new muscles in the lead arm. You will tend to have more engagement and sensations. It is to be expected. Nevertheless, try training the lead arm only with a couple other other drills. Reshaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section and the Proper Muscle Activation Video in the Introduction Advanced Section.
February 4, 2015
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David
Firstly, I think this is a great 'left arm' video, though I agree with Terry's comment below about the confusion it creates with trying to keep the maximum lag. When Chuck first explains at 6.21 in the video about keeping the elbow pointing at the target, he has great lag AND the back of his left hand is still pointing directly away from his body (towards camera). Then at 8.08 in the video he says the left wrist starts rotating almost at the top of the downswing. When he demonstrates this at 8.20 in the video he looses all the lag he showed previously and it looks like a scoop. He then demonstates what a wide open wrist looks like at 8.33 and it again looks like a good lag position. Again at 16.00 in the video he demonstrates using the impact bag to practice the drill and for all his swings it looks like he has the back of his left hand 'open' (or away from him), with good lag, until the last moment when release happens i.e his wrists haven't rotated early in the downswing. There is obvious some reason why his explaination of rotating the wrists from the top of the downswing is mentioned, though if I had that concept in my mind I would release way too early. All the other RST 'lag' videos I watched (e.g. Keys To Creating Lag; 9 to 3 Lag Building Drills) show the rotating of the wrists very late (at right thigh at earliest) and the back of the left hand is away from the thigh at that point. Are you able to clarify why Chuck mentioned starting the left wrist rotataion at the top of the swing in this particular video?
January 30, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
David, You're a very astute in matters of the golf swing and I feel like once you get the program down, you're going to be a great golfer. I think that this video that I'm posting to this response will help you with your plight immensely. http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/squaring-the-club-face R.J.
January 31, 2015
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David
Thanks R.J. for the link and it did explain why he is promoting left wrist rotation early. However, my perception is it still contradicts all the 'lag' videos and a lot of the others I have watched on RST. Is it a case of only using this early rotation to get the 'feel' of squaring the club face early IF you are having issues with blocking shots, or flipping the wrists at the very end?
February 1, 2015
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
David, It's definitely more important for those who are blocking and flipping. However, the more gradual your club face rotates in the downswing, the more consistent that you will be. The squaring of the club face is caused by the turning of the logo on the lead hand glove towards the ground. Here is a video that relates squaring the club face with lag. It is an exaggeration drill, but you'll see that turning the logo towards the ground can still produce a lot of lag. http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-advanced/downswing/exaggerated-lag-hands-ahead-at-impact Let us know if you have any more questions! R.J.
February 1, 2015
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john
If I pull down hard with the left arm and it gives me extra lenght and accuracy, can I assume that my position at impact is correct. Is there any other way of checking this other than with the video?
January 23, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You want to use pull and gravity. Don't yank it down too hard. Its hard to tell without video whether you are hitting the proper impact alignment. But, the ball should be launching on a good low to mid trajectory and relatively little side spin.
January 24, 2015
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Terry
One other question - you talk about left elbow pain which I don't have- what causes right elbow pain. I have "golf elbow" in the right arm- I swing right handed. What causes this and what can I do to keep from getting it? thanks Terry
January 20, 2015
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Aaron (Certified RST Instructor)
Terry, I would bet that your pain in the right elbow comes from over use of the right arm. Being right handed it is all to easy to allow the right arm to overtake the swing. Try to keep a very light right hand throughout the swing and see if that helps. I call it gentle speed. Don't force it. The video why is golf so hard and the solution. I hope that helps.
January 23, 2015
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Terry
It seems that by starting the rotation of the left hand / elbow from the top, that this would lead to an early release and the same loss of power I've been trying to fix. I've seen a few of the pros swings before impact, they are hanging on to the lag a long time. How does the mechanics we are learning here relate to that?
January 20, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Terry. You don't want to try and hold lag for a long time. It is more maintained and gained. If you force yourself to try and hold lag. More often than not you will lose it early. Take a look at the Re-Shaping Your Swing For Lag in the Introduction Section to see the blend of gravity and pull to increase the angle. You will start to shallow the club, then square the face into the ball.
January 21, 2015
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Michael
When working with this video I've noticed that it is impossible for me to have my elbow and the back of my hand facing the target line at the same time. I broke this elbow when I was a teenager so this may have something to do with it. When the back of my hand is square to the target line my elbow is pointing about 45 degrees to the left of the target. The only way I can get both of them to line up is to grab hold of my elbow and force my left hand to rotate. Is there something I can do to compensate?
January 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. Try to achieve the position as close as you can. You don't want to try and compensate. But, make sure during the release you don't overly flip the left elbow over too much.
January 20, 2015
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Michael
Will do. Thanks! I would imagine that it's more important to have the back of my hand square to to target line.
January 20, 2015
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Michael
Do you keep a straight left elbow on the downswing? In other words, does it stay locked, or do you give it some flex on the down swing?
January 18, 2015
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Michael
It is straight.
January 19, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Michael. You don't want to actively bend the lead elbow on the downswing, nor do you want to lock it. The lead arm should be straight, but relaxed enough so that the other muscles can perform their proper function.
January 18, 2015
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john
Having reread ladd I realise that internal rotation of the left arm going back and coming down contributes to a flatter club plane . I have been too steep coming down. Is this how I flatten my club plane along with weight shift to the left side? John
January 16, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello John. You are spot on. Get that swing plane shallowing out. Weight shift and using that lead arm correctly!
January 16, 2015
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mick
Hi just a quick question after watching this drill the feeling im getting is "lower hands" after impact it feels good. Does that sound right !
January 6, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mick. Through impact you will feel more stacked and the hands releasing properly into the strike. It can tend to feel as if the hands are staying low and "in" the shot more.
January 7, 2015
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chad
Tried keeping the elbow pointed at the target today (with much success ).I made solid contact in the past but struggled with direction until today I actually hit it where I wanted. Great video
January 5, 2015
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Chad. Thanks for the post. Happy to hear success!
January 5, 2015
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Ian
I must upload a swing, but briefly I am a short hitter, i have some stats, 88 mph clubhead speed, 120 ball speed, 222 carry, 15.1 laund and 2900 rpm (with a driver not a 7 iron sadly) Which videos should I follow as seems to me clubhead and ball speed are what I need to increase
December 29, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Ian. We must first diagnose where the problem lies. In the swing review system your instructor will easily be able to tell. It could be a lag, width, or rotational issue. Take a look at the Wide Narrow Wide Video in the Introduction Advanced Section. Make sure you have the proper swing shape. If you don't, start working on shaping the swing.
December 29, 2014
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Hai
This is a very interesting instruction as I have never realized my left elbow position could have any impact on the swing. I understand that Chuck is saying here that the left elbow should be pointing DTL at the impact, and the elbow pit should not pointing outward. However, after tried a couple of times, I found that this "left elbow DTL at the impact" position is pretty conterintuitive. If I do my regular swing, at impact, my left elbow pit will naturally pointing outward, and at the same time the left elbow will pointing to my body not the target. I can achieve the "left elbow DTL at the impact" position by intentionally rotate my left forearm inward during downswing. However, there is only a fraction of a second for the downswing, and seems it is very difficult to do the "intentionally rotation" stuff during this time. Thanks for your comments. Hai
December 27, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Hai, The reason for having the elbow pointed down the target line at impact is for shock absorption. Your arm can only bend one direction and if your elbow is not aligned with the direction of force, then it will force the elbow to bend in an unfavorable way when impacting the ground. This causes golfer's elbow and can be very painful. It may not feel very natural at first, but that doesn't mean that the idea is counter intuitive. It's likely that the reason why you're feeling like you're having to internally rotate the arm in the downswing is because your arm is not in the proper position at the top of the swing or you're aggressively rotating the shoulders from the top of the swing, which will in turn outwardly rotate the forearms. Here are some videos to check out: http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/backswing/checkpoints-5-minutes-backswing Notice how Clay's leading arm elbow pit is pointing at his face at the top of the swing. If one were to pull down their arm into the impact position without rotating the arm, the elbow would be pointing down the target line at impact. No additional internal rotation required http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/tour-pros/sang-moon-bae-hips-for-lag Watch how quiet Sang Moon Bae's upper body is until just before impact Let us know if you have any more questions. We're always here for you! R.J.
December 27, 2014
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Jarod
Been playing for 20 years with a bent left elbow at impact. I can't keep my left arm straight at the top of the swing but I've found that straightening my left arm as I shift my weight has enabled me to compress the ball and hit straighter and more powerful shots. Does this concur with your teaching?
December 21, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jarod. We would like the left arm straight working into the impact area. If you start with it too much bent at the top and straighten it on the downswing. You could be throwing the club a little away from you. Make sure you don't have more than 90 degrees of flexion in you right arm at the top of the backswing. It will be hard to bend the left with the right arm straighter.
December 21, 2014
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Mike
I've been completely focused on set up and backswing drills till now and want to start working on the downswing. I understand the first part of "move 3" where you pull to your left heal and your left leg is in neutral joint alignment. From here, the instruction in the rest of the Move 3 and in the Move 4 videos seem to call for a "pulling" of the left oblique. At about the 9-10 minute mark of this video Chuck describes the pulling as more of the left arm, with less focus on rotation. I think I understand that pulling the left oblique is different than spinning the shoulders, but as I'm just starting to work on the downswing moves I want to make sure I can at least understand what's supposed to be going on. Thanks.
December 9, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Mike. Yes, pulling the left oblique is different than spinning the shoulders. The pull from the oblique helps rotate the left hip versus spinning the shoulder to help open the body. Shift the weight, pull from the oblique to open the hips, and allow the left arm to pull into the strike. The left arm will be a mixture of pull and gravity on the downswing.
December 9, 2014
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W.J.
In the downswing I think my left arm follows a line towards the target parellell to the targetline. For me seems that to be / to feel like a strong motion. I wonder if that is the right movement / a good and effective mental representation?
December 4, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Willem Jan, Yes, you do want your left arm to swing on a plane underneath your left shoulder joint instead of allowing your hands to pull away from your body. R.J.
December 4, 2014
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Matt
Thank you for the clarification. That helps a lot and makes more sense
November 29, 2014
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Matt, My apologies on my comment earlier about the left elbow at impact. The left elbow is going to be slightly rotated at impact with the left elbow pit slightly inward (not pointing directly outward otherwise we will be having to time the rotation of the arm). by having this position we will be able to get rid of trying to time two (2) pivot points at impact to get the face square, the left wrist and the left arm. All we have to worry about then is the flat left wrist at impact.
November 29, 2014
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Matt
So the left elbow should be pointing towards the target at impact? This feels very unnatural and I thought in a different video chuck said the natural way the arms sit is the elbow pit facing forward
November 28, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Matt, Yes, the natural position for your body while standing straight up is to have your elbow pits pointing away from you. However, the impact position and your general posture are two very different positions, serving two different purposes. Chuck explains in the video why you don't want your elbow pit facing away from you at impact. It prevents the elbow from being jarred in the wrong direction when making impact with the ball. If you have your elbow pit facing away from your body at impact, you will develop tendinitis in the elbow. R.J.
November 30, 2014
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Bob
I have been told that the proper sequence for the back swing is to first start turning the hips, then the shoulders, then taking the arms back. This video suggests that the hips stay fairly stable and the shoulders rotate first. Am I missing something?
November 19, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Bob, Yes. If you rotate the hips first in your takeaway, you'll never get any separation between the shoulders and the hips, and you'll be prone to rotating the hips too far which will put stress on your knees, lower back and getting you tilting back towards the target at the top of your backswing. I can assure you that no where on the rotary swing website does it suggest to move the hips first in the backswing so, it appears that you've been getting terrible advice from someone. Before working about the left arm in the downswing, please watch these videos about the stance, takeaway and backswing because we need to get those fixed up first so that you don't end up injuring yourself. http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/takeaway/5-minutes-to-master-rotation http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/setup/5-minutes-to-the-perfect-golf-setup http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/weight-shift/5-minute-golf-setup-w-weight-shift http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/takeaway/5-minutes-to-the-perfect-takeaway http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/fault-fixes/overswing-across-the-line/5-minutes-to-the-perfect-backswing-ffo Once you master those drills, then you can move on to these drills: http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/fault-fixes/losing-lag-and-weak-release/5-minutes-to-the-perfect-downswing-ffl http://www.rotaryswing.com/videos/full-swing-basics/downswing/5-minutes-to-the-perfect-golf-club-release Those videos will give you the basics of what you need to learn to have a perfect golf swing. After those are ingrained into your mind so that you can do them perfectly without thinking about it, you can really start to pick apart your swing to fine tune it with the specific drills. Good luck with your progress! R.J.
November 19, 2014
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Robert
It appears to me that the model that is behind you that his shoulders are tilted not level and that his hip is forward and not in nja? Am I nit picking or is this so?
October 26, 2014
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R.J. (Certified RST Instructor)
Robert, It's just a promotional poster. If you look at it, there is a black shadow going down the right side of the figure that blends in to the black pants making the hips look more forward than what they are. The shoulders are starting to turn back behind the body because this is just after impact. Also, the angle might not be giving the image justice. I wouldn't worry much about the poster and focus on the instruction of the video. R.J.
October 26, 2014
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Jeremy
Can this drill be used with some of my longer clubs?...i.e. 5/3 wood, driver? I ask because I can not seem to swing my 3 wood without leaving a divot in the fairway.
October 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Jeremy. Have a little Sergio issue with divots and woods? Yes, you can use this for the 3/5 wood. Also, try the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section to help shallow out more. The Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag in the Introduction Section Left Arm only will be helpful.
October 15, 2014
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Jason
I've always heard the term let the body swing the arms. I translated that into pulling the arms with the body and since the arms are connected at the shoulder that is the major point of tension, which is what I think Chuck is talking about when he references Hogan in the video. Am correct in saying that the left shoulder should not feel like it is pulling the arms, but the arms are just naturally dropping and there is tension no in the shoulder. Thanks again for all your help!
October 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The arms should feel as if they are just dropping with gravity. However, there is some pull. You don't want to spin the body or rip the club down with your arms. The left lat will be aiding gravity to bring the arms down and in front of you.
October 6, 2014
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David
When I get my shoulders in the box, and hold my arm straight out with my thumb pointing to the sky (flat left wrist), the elbow pit seems to point 45 degrees to the right. I know that I will have to slightly internally rotate the left arm to get the proper grip. In order to get my left elbow to point down the target line, it feels like I have to almost internally rotate it to the max. Then, in trying to get the wrist back to a flat position, inevitably my arm will externally rotate. That leaves me at an impact position that is almost the same as when I hold my arm in front of me. As a result, I'm having some aches and pains on the outer portion of my arm/elbow. I know that if I have aches/pains, I'm doing it wrong. So should I be training my left arm to stay internally rotated, and then just rotate the wrist back to flat? If so, are there any additional tips you have? I'm really struggling with this part of the drill.
September 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello David. You shouldn't put yourself in pain. Take a look at the Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Advanced Introduction Section for more information. The left arm will rotate some. Don't jam it in there too internally rotated.
September 30, 2014
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David
Craig, thanks for the reply. I've watched all of the videos, including the left elbow at impact video, but am still having trouble with this move. The problem is that my arm is slightly externally rotated at the point of impact, and keeping it internally rotated is a challenge. So I'm looking for some guidance as to how to keep the arm somewhat internally rotated and yet be able to begin to close the clubface on the downswing.
September 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The arm might be a touch externally rotated. You just don't want to be flipping the left elbow over. As you already know. The best advice you is keep the left arm as steady as possible. Don't get too hung up on keeping it fully internally rotated. Learn the wrist release. Use the 5 Mins to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section and the Vijay Release Drill in the Advanced Downswing Section. If you have the ability to upload a swing for review. I would have no problem taking a look and seeing maybe the step or piece you are missing.
September 30, 2014
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Brian
How important. Is it to have your left arm perfectly straight in back swing
September 29, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Brian. You don't want to force or stress anything in the golf swing. It is ok to have the left arm relaxed. You don't want it bending too much though. Focus on your trail side. If you right arm maintains your width going back, the left arm will stay straight.
September 29, 2014
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Steven
For people who are right side dominant, like me, shouldn't we try to play golf from the left side? That way, our dominant arm would be both squaring the club face and powering the release. As you describe the golf swing, it seems identical to a one hand backhand in tennis.
September 26, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Steven. You could do that. But, if you are right handed and have always done the majority of things with your right side. It would be hard to start all over again from the left side of the ball.
September 26, 2014
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Bruce
When I rotate left wrist / forearm, my elbow also rotates. Is there a exercise to fix that ? thanks
September 26, 2014
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james (Certified RST Instructor)
Hi Yes, Check out the left elbow at impact video in the downswing section
September 26, 2014
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Toby
That video only explains why it is important, there is no exercise contained in it.
September 27, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Toby. Take a look at the Left Elbow Position at Impact Video in the Advanced Downswing Section. Also, the 5 Minutes to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section.
September 27, 2014
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Mark
This is really exceptional instruction on the mechanics of the golf swing -makes perfect sense.
September 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Mark. We strive to keep it clear and logical for our members.
September 25, 2014
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Joe
What a great video. Will help tons on impact position and straighten out the shots. I was always under the impression that the right arm controlled impact. Thanks again, Joe
September 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Joe. Thanks! Lead arm control on the way down is crucial.
September 24, 2014
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Joe
Thanks for your help. I really enjoy your program. Has really opened my eyes to what should be done and get rid of the bad habits after 25 years.
September 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Appreciate the post Joe. We are happy to help you and make your swing more efficient.
September 25, 2014
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Peter
Chuck, I am new to rotary swing and have gone through backswing now watching how right handed dominant the lessons are, you never really hear any instructors bringing left handed golfers into the action, ( we will always reverse everything ). No watching left hand in the golf swing how will that relate to me. I am a right handed person who plays golf lefty. Can you let me know how this will effect me. I would be nice to hear how lefties would relate to some of the drills. Peter
September 24, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Peter. A right handed person that plays lefty should play into your favor. You are already dominant with the lead arm/hand into the strike. You would probably have an issue of pulling too much and not releasing. Work on controlling the face properly into the strike with the 5 Mins to the Perfect Release.
September 24, 2014
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JORGE IVAN
Looks like impossible for me to have the elbow pointing at the target, my elbow is 45 degrees closed since the beginning of my swing. In order to do what Chuck is proposing, I have to twist my wrist counter clockwise which adds too much strain into my forearm. Feels very unnatural and tenses my muscles. Am I missing something?
September 18, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Ivan -- I would suggest that you start out with a very short club and choke way down on it to make the club really light and easy to control. The musculature for supination (left wrist rotating counter clockwise as you say) is not nearly as strong as pronation. Work from a 9 to 3 region at first until you get the correct feel. You want the left arm to feel as though it is swinging from the shoulder as a pivot point. Of course there will be some internal rotation of the elbow in the hitting area, this drill is designed to get you to pull the left elbow down the target line as much as possible while trying to gradually square the face on the way down. If you tend to "pro-style" flip the club, this will help slow the rotation of the face so you dont hit a bunch of mean quick hooks. Hope that helps
September 18, 2014
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Somphon
Hi, To create lag, we should do downcock drill at the start of downswing. Doing downcock makes left wrist somewhat cup vs this VDO that Chuck bows the left wrist which helps square club face early but we'll somewhat not have as much lag. Pls clarify this point as bowing left wrist while creating lag will be very difficult to do. Another question, keep shoulder shut = somewhat out of the box (of the left side) a bit as Chuck said at early of VDO, right? Thanks,
September 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Yong. Take a look at the Using the Wrist Efficiently Video in the Advanced Introduction Section for more information on how the left arm/wrist will work throughout the swing. You shouldn't be creating a big amount of cupping as you increase the lag. At the top of the back swing the left shoulder will have some protraction to it. You shouldn't be coming out of the box vertical though. On the way down the pulling and engagement of the left lat will keep it from getting out of control and staying in the proper location through the shot.
September 14, 2014
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simon
hi, when i check video, my downswing seems to be a little above plane (slightly steeper than my on plane backswing). I have followed your video's directly but i am still coming in slightly 'over the ball'. My weight is and has always been on my left side as i can see in video's. I am lost for guidance on this one. the only way i can seem to get the plane correct is to consciously let my hands be lazy and drop at the top to flatten out the plane. what do you think of this?
September 7, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Simon. You need to use the weight shift and gravity to help shallow out. The arms can feel passive at the start. Keep the shoulders shut and let the arms fall to help get you on plane. Use the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in this Section for good imagery. And, the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Video in the Introduction Section for more left arm training.
September 7, 2014
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simon
you really are a genius in the way you simplify everything! Improved my consistency dramatically already!
September 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thank you for the compliment and good feedback!
September 4, 2014
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rodney
What do you guys feel about a tad bit of left elbow flexion at the top of the BS? Seems to help the left elbow pull down the line easier without it rotating at impact.
September 2, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rodney. Having a relaxed left arm is ok. I don't want you stressing it to max force. But, if it is really bending a lot at the top. You might need to keep it in check by working on less right elbow flexion. If you keep the right arm in front of you and don't add anymore flexion than 90 degrees. The left arm will stay straight.
September 2, 2014
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rodney
Is there in effort to externally rotate right humerus on downswing to help shallow plane? What are some of the pros and cons for this?
September 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Rodney. You don't need to manually add more from the trail arm coming down. It might wrench the scapula and get you stuck behind your hip.
September 1, 2014
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Michael
I cannot seem to rotate the left forearm enough in part II of swing. It is so important to hit this as it sets the club on plane with the left elbow in the correct position to begin the downswing. My clubshaft is still steep with the club not aligned with my left arm at the top. Any suggestions as I struggle with the rotation part once the swing is at step II?
September 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Mike. Take a look at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section. Learn how simple the weight transfer and pulling from the lead side is to shallow out your plane.
September 1, 2014
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Edward
Can make a video of this Ladd drill but using a driver? I have a lot of trouble with the driver and cannot visualize the body positions. Thanks
August 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Edward. Thanks for the post. Have you looked at the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in the Downswing Section? Should be some good visuals to help shallow out your plane.
September 1, 2014
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david
you said the elbow is at 90 degrees at the end of this video for proper impact. Did you mean 180? Confused
August 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dave. I see where you are confused. From your thinking yes. From Chuck's perspective. 90 degrees of rotation from the top/down. If you rotated the arm/wrist 180. You would have and open palm facing away from you and the elbow pit turned out away from the body.
August 19, 2014
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Allen
Is there a video lesson demonstrating how "throw the ball" and "L arm in the downswing" work together?
August 17, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Allen. There isn't a combination video that I know of. Good suggestion for one though. If you watch the 5 Mins to the Perfect Release in the Downswing Section. You will learn how the trail increases speed as the left releases. The Acceleration Profile Video in the Advanced Downswing should help with the understanding of the release of speed from the trail side and control of the lead side. In the Videos for You Section - Latest Videos. Martin Kaymer Releasing for Distance might be a little more insight too.
August 17, 2014
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Dale
I am doing the LADD exercise (which I really like), but the club keeps bottoming out earlier, rather than in alignment with the left side or shoulder. I know I tend to lean back when I swing, which causes a more inside-to-out swing, thus causing me to flip the club. No surprise, my biggest swing flaw is flipping the club, which causes a loss of power and higher ball flight. Unfortunately, I played enough golf to recover from this flaw and shoot fairly decent scores at the sacrifice of distance. Any suggestions on maximizing this drill?
August 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
If you tend to lean back adding the flip from to in to out. Use the Level Shoulders Video and the Trace the Plane Line Video in the Advanced Downswing Section to eliminate the tilt and get on plane.
August 8, 2014
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Mark
I need to know the best drills, best videos, to maximize my time with an impact bag.
August 8, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Mark. We have 100's of videos that use the impact bag. It would be difficult to narrow down the exact few to maximize results without seeing your swing. Have you uploaded a swing for review? We would be glad to get you started!
August 8, 2014
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charles
This video is too long and does not easily distinguish cause and effect. What happens naturally as a result of other aspects of the swing versus what do you think about actively doing with the forward arm? It is not clear. Too much info. Is there another video that gets the underlying message across more simply?
August 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Charles. The Stop Coming Over the Top Video in this section will help you understand how weight shift and the lead arm simply bring the club on plane. Versus the principle of steeping it with the trail shoulder and arm. The lead arm, especially the wrist and hand, controls the club face at impact. The key is to feel the shoulders staying shut or passive as you allow time for the weight shift and gravity to shallow out the plane. Giving you the opportunity to rotate the lead arm correctly into impact and square the face. You may also check out the Squaring the Club Face Early Video in Advanced Downswing Section for more info on the lead arms role.
August 5, 2014
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Charlie
Observation: the picture of Tiger in the background seems to be a BAD example of what is being taught here. His shoulder is way high and he doesn't seem to be "covering" the ball.
August 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Charlie. The picture in the background is actually Chuck. In the image, Chuck does get a little sliding with the hips past NJA leading to a touch too much secondary axis tilt. It was taken very early on in the process of him honing in on his RST Move.
August 4, 2014
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Steve
Seems like if the back of the left hand is facing the target at impact then the left elbow is actually pointing left of the target. Is this correct? Or is the elbow just pointing parallel left of the target?
August 2, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Take a look at the Left Elbow Position at Impact Video in the Downswing Advanced Section. The elbow pit will be pointing down the line.
August 2, 2014
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Todd
Thanks Craig, the left arm is a great key, I had the hooks with my driver the other day, I was trying to be the guy in the picture, any thoughts on hooking , the driver??
July 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Todd. Hooking starting out right then left, or more a pull hook starting left then more left?
July 31, 2014
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Todd
More a pull hook my friend, its UGLY and it was so good last week , my Irons are not effected as much
July 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
A pull hook will predominately be caused by shut club and out to in swing path on the way down. Get on plane with the Stop Coming Over the Top Video in this section. Master feeling the correct impact release position of being square, not shut with the 5 Mins to a Perfect Release Video in this section as well. On plane and square club. Less Pull Hook.
July 31, 2014
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Todd
Craig, look at the angle of his shoulders in the picture, there pointing towards the sky. during the video he says he wants the feeling the left shoulder is working down at impact?? I know he says ( feeling ) but that isn't even close?? Thats also a reverse C looking swing
July 31, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Todd. Yes, it is a feeling the the left shoulder will work down. At impact there will be some axis tilt away from the target. His left hip and knee has moved a tad outside of neutral joint alignment leading to the excess of secondary axis tilt. I can see how the picture might be misleading, but he's definitely not moving into a reverse "c". Focus on what his lead arm is doing. Sorry for the confusion with the image.
July 31, 2014
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Todd
on the LADD video , there is a picture of Chuck in the background, doing exactly what hes telling us not to do ????? What up!!
July 30, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Todd. I would be happy to answer your question. What difference are you seeing?
July 30, 2014
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David
for the driver, at impact, should the hands be ahead of the ball, even with the ball or behind the ball?
July 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The hands or lead side will still be pulling through and tend to be even with the ball. To maximize yardage. Take a look at Driver Launch Angle in the Bomb You Driver Series (Bonus Section).
July 15, 2014
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David
at impact, is the right elbow pointing at the target? that is difficult to do!
July 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The right elbow will be pointed away from the body and towards the target. Getting it perfectly inline with the target would be a little difficult. I concur.
July 15, 2014
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David
when should the left arm begin to fold after impact?
July 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey David. Check below.
July 15, 2014
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David
when does the left arm fold in the swing? how long should it remain straight after impact?
July 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The left arm will begin to fold in the follow through after belt high.
July 15, 2014
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John
Hi can you help lease I am a little confused. On this video at 13 mins 46 seconds there is a picture of you at impact position. On this picture your shoulder is pointing down. On the poster behind which I assume is TW at impact is left shoulder is pointing up. Moreover if we squat on the down swing and leverage of the ground for extra power ( tiger squat video) it is hard to keep ones left shoulder pointing down when we are squatting up from the ground. Can you clarify please. Many thanks John
July 14, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey John. The poster in the background is Chuck. You are correct in your diagnosis. It's more of a feeling about the left shoulder pointing down. Most swingers tend to push too much from their trail side which leads to excessive secondary axis tilt and the shoulders being un-level. The right will naturally be under the left just due to the right arm being lower on the club and maximizing potential launch at impact. Most golfers feeling the left down will help them push less.
July 14, 2014
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Bert
Thanks for the very good presentation. I am unclear about your comments with regard to pulling the left arm down. Are you pulling it down with arm movement or are yiu pulling it down with the core muscles. This video was recommended by my instuctor relative to my third swing review. Thanks Bert
July 10, 2014
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Steven (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Bert, it is a combination of both! you are pulling with the left arm and also pulling with the left Lats and the left Obliques.
July 10, 2014
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Jim
When I do this drill the heel of my club hits the ground first. What am I doing wrong?
July 5, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Jim. You might be dropping the club too much and releasing the angle too soon. Make sure you get the arm working in front of you as it is shallowing out. Maintain the lag and then release.
July 6, 2014
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Tom
this is for your web designer; when I go from a link from my swing review directly to this video it runs for a few minutes then the video stops and the audio keeps going. If I go to this video directly via Video's->Full Swing Program->Downswing then load the LADD video no problemo.
July 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tom. Please use the Contact Us link at the bottom of the page. Customer Support will be happy to help you with your issue. They are very nice and helpful!
July 1, 2014
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Tom
When I make the transition from backswing to downswing after the weight shift should I be pulling from the left oblique or from the left arm/shoulder? I'm unsure of how the left side really works in the downswing is what I'm really saying.
July 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Tom. After the weight transfer you will start to pull with the left oblique. This will aid in pulling the arms in front until the left lat engages. The sequence will work from the ground up.
July 1, 2014
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David
I have been experimenting with weakening my grip so that the back of my left hand points directly at the target at impact (as demonstrated in this video). This grip means that the fleshy part of my left palm (under the thumb) is only on top of the club at impact, without any of it behind the club. The only part of my hand behind the club are the last joints of each of my fingers. Is this correct? It feels very insecure to me, but if I rotate my hand so that some of the fleshy part is behind the club, the back of my hand will point about 15 degrees right of target at impact. If it is what you recommend, what is the reason for such a weak grip? Thank you. BTW, I love the site and all the information here!
July 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello. It's hard to tell without seeing your new grip. It sounds like you are on the right track. Nevertheless, you don't want to miss too weak. It will feel insecure. Make sure the "v" between your thumb and index finger is pointing between the right shoulder and head. Also, gripping it with the last three fingers. Feel free to upload a video to our online review system. You can film the grip. One of instructors will be happy to check it.
July 1, 2014
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Ken
It's been a while since I've watched this video. Now I remember why I love it so much! This video, at least to me, is so well explained and demonstrated that it has immediate results. Having done all those basic drills at the beginning at each step of the golf swing has really paid off. Once those foundations are laid, it's relatively easy to add the next piece to my swing. I'm even getting compliments at the golf range! (Tough crowd!) Thanks, Chuck.
July 1, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
I agree Ken. One of my favorite videos as well. Keep getting those compliments!
July 1, 2014
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Paul
Hi Craig. I recently obtained a Impact Bag. When it arrives, it didn't have any filling in it and neither any recommendation of what to use. What would you recommend what sort of filling I should obtain? I was considering dry clean sand, but it seems to be to heavy. Your video clip sounds just what I need to practise, because I am having this trouble spinning to early. Kind regards Paul
June 21, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Paul. Sand will be too heavy and not provide enough give when you start adding additional speed into the bag. The majority of users fill the bag with towels. Fluff up some old towels and stuff them in there. It will do the trick.
June 21, 2014
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don
Question kind of related to this video, can't actually find the right place to ask it. When I practice a drill or a movement, an example the stomp or step drill, I execute the positions, club sets on plane and in position perfectly, weight shifts properly, looks great. Then when I put a ball in front of me, all thoughts are the same,I even shift my weight first and that looks good but my right shoulder shrugs up, out of the box, I tense up- it looks like and I come over and around it. Im assuming its this giant right hit urge I must have. How would I take this "hit" impulse out of the swing/drills? Frustrating as heck. I placed the question here because a theory I have is I need more left side in my swing and that will neutralize the right somewhat, although I try that and the urge is so great It still takes over. Please offer what you believe could help. Thank you. You guys are great!
June 19, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Don. Take a look at the Re-Shaping Your Swing for Lag Video in the Introduction Section. Learning the overall shape and training both arms independently will aid in getting the arms synched up with the body. Helping to alleviate the hit impulse.
June 20, 2014
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Dan
This video indicates you bring the club down with the left arm and hand. There is another video which discusses bring the club down with the right arm and and hand. Which is it?
June 15, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hello Dan. I think you are referring to the Key to Creating Lag Video. It is in the Advanced Downswing Section.
June 16, 2014
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Daniel
does this include using the driver?
June 11, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes, this is how the driver will start to shallow out from the left side as well.
June 11, 2014
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Lee
Craig, I have been working on this very hard. In the video, Chuck talks about how your left shoulder should feel like it is going down when you shift your weight in the downswing. I found that my left shoulder actually started going down after working on this for a long time with many reps which I think has caused me to hit the ball fat even more. I found that when I feel like my left shoulder is moving up and towards the target instead that I do not hit fat shots like I was when it was moving down. Could I be right in thinking that is what was causing me to hit it fat more often or is there nothing wrong with that? Should the left shoulder actually be moving down? If not, what should the left shoulder actually be doing, moving toward the target and up or something else? I hate that I practiced it and tried to feel so much that my left shoulder was moving down that I actually started doing it if that is not supposed to be what it is doing (I did over 1,200 reps this way). I will be very thankful to know what the right way is so that I can fix it if it is not right. Thanks in advance for your comments.
June 10, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
The left shoulder will be working a little down coming from the top. At impact the right shoulder will be a little underneath, due to the right hand being lower on the club than the left hand. The left shoulder will work down and then back up. It sounds like your changing more your spine angle than left shoulder down. Make sure your not dropping the body on the way down versus just the left shoulder leading as the left arm shallows out. Take a Look at the Tiger Squat Video in the Downswing Advanced Section to understand how the body will raise at impact. Also, the Straight Left Knee video in the same section. Upload one of your swings to the review system Lee. I will be happy to check it out for you. It's probably a simpler fix than you think to eliminate the fat shots.
June 10, 2014
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Lee
Ok, thank you Craig. So you are saying for doing the drill that my left shoulder should go down while keeping my shoulders closed like the drill talks about? I guess that may have helped to know exactly what I was asking about as far as me talking about when keeping my shoulders closed like the drill talks about. I was asking about when keeping the shoulders closed. I hope I am not mixing videos and thinking of the Reshaping Your Swing For Lag video. Either way, I would like to know to make sure I am practicing the drill right. Thanks again.
June 12, 2014
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Jack O.
Chuck U in the LADD video U mentioned the importance of having the left elbow facing down the target line at impact along with the back of the left hand. In the address set up position should the left elbow be preset pacing down the target line or facing down like the right elbow ? Thanks Orrin B
June 4, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
In the address position the left elbow pit will be facing away from the body.
June 5, 2014
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Michael
Wow I overlooked this video and I realized I try to time both. This is harder then it looks.Nice video!
May 25, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Thanks Michael.
May 25, 2014
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Arthur
I have to start by saying I have been using RST for 7 -8 months and am now playing from the tips at 59 years old. I do experience soreness in my left rotator cup when after a round when I concetrate on pulling through the left side. Any idea why?
May 23, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Hey Arthur. Make sure your not ripping the left arm too much through the hitting zone and into your release. If you keep excessively pulling the left arm away from the body. It might cause an issue. Most of the time when our students experience left shoulder pain, its form pushing the left arm too much in the backswing. Check to make sure your not protracting the left shoulder and arm out at the top of the backswing.
May 25, 2014
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Matt
Chuck makes a comment where you internally rotate your left arm upon the initial downswing, but a minute or two later he says the wrist is gradually rotating from the top. How can you internally rotate your left arm, but then at the same time rotate your wrist gradually?
May 22, 2014
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Chuck
Hi Matt, to clarify, the left arm internal rotation is extremely slight and a passive move that occurs due to the transition forces of the body changing directions while the arm remains relatively passive. The external rotation of the left forearm is a relatively more active motion that occurs more in the forearm that is required to help square the face.
May 22, 2014
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Matt
I have been doing left arm only drills for a while now, and pretty much every swing I do the left hand is in a very good impact position. Once I immediately put the right hand on, it goes out the door. Is there a good way to introduce the right arm back into the swing without sacrificing the good lag and release i get with just my left arm?
May 22, 2014
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Craig (Certified RST Instructor)
Try building yourself up to having the right hand on the club. We have our students practice 9 to 3 swings with the right hand on, but opened palmed. So they can get used to having the right hand on. Then building up from there gradually putting the correct grip on and moving to a more full swing.
May 22, 2014
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Matt
Ok, I will give I will work on just barely having my right hand on to see if that helps. Since I have a golf net in my basement (can't do a full follow through only 3/4 since I am too tall) I think I should be able to get this down in a couple of weeks hopefully.
May 22, 2014
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Dave
After practicing this drill today I hit a small bucket. I produced a really nice looking pull draw rather than my normal fade. Any suggestions how to straighten this potentially nice ball flight out?
May 1, 2014
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Chris (Certified RST Instructor)
Make sure that you aren't overcooking the release. That can be very common after working this drill for a bit. Check out 5 minutes to a perfect release and then try to tone it back a bit
May 1, 2014
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Jason
The initiation on this arm dropping comes from the squat, correct? I think I started by having way too much shoulder action, then I moved to just trying to get the arm to drop, but realized I was forcing the arms and the release. I started to feel good when I squatted, trying not to move the upper body, and let the arms drop naturally with the squat. Then continue through the ball as this video discusses.
April 14, 2014
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René (Certified RST Instructor)
Yes in the downswing the lower body start first by shifting to the lead side in to NJA (shoulder, hip and ankle alignment) and the arms will drop naturally during this first part. It's a great feeling also for your rhythm and tempo. Congratulations!
April 14, 2014

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